{"id":3859,"date":"2024-04-15T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-04-15T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/?p=3859"},"modified":"2026-06-19T06:13:25","modified_gmt":"2026-06-19T11:13:25","slug":"no-cooling-a-step-by-step-guide-of-what-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/ac-repair\/no-cooling-a-step-by-step-guide-of-what-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"No Cooling? A Step By Step Guide of What to Do"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-medium\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service.jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"Air conditioning repair technician smiling at phone beside a work van.\" class=\"wp-image-3860\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service-1536x1025.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/service.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>People are used to immediate results when it comes to an appliance. You flip the switch and it should start working right away. Think about the lights in your home or your television. When you press the button or flip the switch, you can probably imagine how it&#8217;s supposed to react. This instant gratification is important because when a system <em>doesn\u2019t<\/em> operate exactly as it should, you might start getting worried about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/ac-repair\/prevent-sudden-ac-repair-needs\/\">sudden AC repair needs<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is normal, but it can be stressful when it has to do with your cooling system. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/cedar-rapids\/air-conditioning\">Air conditioning in Cedar Rapids, IA<\/a> is pretty important, especially when hot temperatures are right around the corner. It feels like heatwaves are coming earlier and earlier each year, which means time is running out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you turn your system on and don&#8217;t feel any cooling, then be sure to follow our guide to alleviate any panic. It&#8217;s going to be okay!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Should You Do When Your AC Is Not Cooling?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your AC is not cooling, start with a few simple checks before scheduling air conditioning repair:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set the thermostat to cooling mode and choose a reasonable indoor temperature<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check whether cool air is coming from the vents<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Replace a clogged or dirty air filter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Look for weak airflow, warm air, or no airflow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turn the system off if the problem continues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call an AC repair technician to diagnose refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, compressor problems, or other system issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These steps can help rule out simple causes while preventing further damage to your air conditioner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why No Cooling Happens<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When your air conditioner ceases to provide you with cool air, something is wrong. This is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/ac-repair\/covert-vs-overt-problems-in-air-conditioners\/\">primary objective of your AC system<\/a>, basically the reason for its invention, and if it&#8217;s not providing this crucial benefit then it&#8217;s consuming electricity for no reason.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No cooling can happen as a result of many different things, and no cooling, warm air, strange noises, or frequent breakdowns are all signs that air conditioning repair may be needed. For starters, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/plumbing-service\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-pinhole-leaks\/\">a refrigerant leak<\/a> is one of the most common reasons for this type of issue, since refrigerant is necessary for the cooling process, and refrigerant leaks often cause the unit to blow warm air while low refrigerant levels can damage the compressor. Another reason for an air conditioner not cooling can be due to a failed compressor or dirty coil system, and dirty coils and filters reduce efficiency while causing airflow or cooling problems as the blower fan pushes lukewarm air into your home. There are more reasons for this type of issue, including when your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/ac-repair\/what-do-i-do-about-a-hot-upstairs\/\">AC struggles to cool upper levels<\/a>, but none of them should be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Professional HVAC technicians can diagnose refrigerant leaks, compressor problems, and other failing components in your air conditioning system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What &#8220;No Cooling&#8221; Means<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How can you tell if your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/air-conditioning-service\/ac-leaks-a-common-problem\/\">AC is just working<\/a> slowly or if it&#8217;s not cooling? It&#8217;s simple!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Set your thermostat to a moderate threshold, like the mid-70s on a warm day. Then wait a few minutes after the system turns on. By that point, your house should be at a comfortable temperature and should meet the temperature setting on your thermostat. If it doesn&#8217;t, then something is wrong with the unit, and small issues can affect overall performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you put your hand over the vents, they should be open so airflow is not restricted, and you should be able to tell whether cool air flowing through the house feels <strong>cool<\/strong>. If it&#8217;s not cool, or if there&#8217;s no airflow, these are all reasons to be concerned since your home can&#8217;t possibly be cooled down by your AC if there&#8217;s no cool air coming from the ventilation system, especially if the system also has <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/ac-repair\/tired-of-the-noise-quiet-your-ac-with-these-steps\/\">issues with unusual AC noise<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Water marks on ceilings can point to an evaporator or condensate drain issue and should not be ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For maintenance, change filters every 1\u20133 months, and keep the outdoor unit clear of foliage and debris to protect performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Troubleshooting Your AC<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what can you do? Here are some steps you can take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Call for help.<\/strong> Customers can contact our team to schedule AC service or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/cedar-rapids\/plumbing\/24-hour-emergency-plumbing\">emergency AC repair<\/a>, including 24\/7 help for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/des-moines\">AC repair in Des Moines<\/a>, Des Moines, and the Des Moines metro area. Our highly trained, professional HVAC technicians are well equipped to diagnose the job, handle air conditioner repair on all major AC brands, and often fix problems on the spot from stocked service vehicles. Air conditioning repair cost and price vary by issue, and service typically includes a diagnostic fee, labor, and parts, with upfront pricing and an estimate after diagnosis. If your unit is over ten years old, or if repairs are more than half the cost of a new system, we may provide options to repair or replace it with the most cost effective solution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Change out the <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/air-conditioning-service\/some-quick-facts-you-should-know-about-your-air-filter\/\"><strong>air filter<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong> Sometimes when the air filter gets clogged, it can inhibit airflow and the cooling potential of your AC, so filters should be changed every 1\u20133 months. Routine maintenance, tune ups, and coil or blower cleaning help protect equipment, improve efficiency, and save on energy bills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Make sure the thermostat is set correctly.<\/strong> Sometimes the solution is simply setting your thermostat to \u201ccooling mode\u201d instead of \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/heating-service\/what-can-you-do-with-no-heat\/\">heating<\/a> mode\u201d so you can maintain a comfortable temperature during summer. If it&#8217;s already set to cooling and a reasonable indoor temperature, or your air conditioner stops working entirely, then there&#8217;s likely a problem.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Homeowners in Des Moines IA, West Des Moines, Central Iowa, and surrounding communities can schedule service today, and regular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/cedar-rapids\/air-conditioning\/installation-replacement\">air conditioning services<\/a> can help restore reliable cooling season long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At this point, if nothing else works then shut your system off and await the diagnosis of our team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: Why is my air conditioner running but not cooling?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> An AC can run without cooling if it has a refrigerant leak, failed compressor, dirty coils, clogged air filter, or airflow problem. Since cooling is the system\u2019s main job, warm air from the vents usually means something needs attention rather than more time to catch up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: How can I tell if my AC is not cooling properly?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Set your thermostat to a moderate temperature, such as the mid-70s, and let the system run for a few minutes. If your home does not cool down or the air from the vents feels warm instead of cool, your air conditioner is likely not cooling properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: What should I check first when my AC stops cooling?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Start by checking that the thermostat is set to cooling mode and a reasonable temperature. Then look at the air filter, since a clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce cooling performance. If those steps do not help, shut the system off and schedule professional service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: Can a dirty air filter stop my AC from cooling?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Yes, a dirty or clogged air filter can block airflow through the system. When airflow is restricted, your AC may struggle to move cool air through the home and may not cool as expected. Replacing the filter is a simple step that can sometimes improve performance quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Question: When should I call a professional for no cooling?<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Answer:<\/strong> Call a professional if your thermostat is set correctly, the air filter has been checked, and the AC still does not produce cool air. Refrigerant leaks, compressor problems, and dirty coil systems need expert diagnosis, and continuing to run the unit may waste electricity or worsen the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Rapids area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or <a href=\"\/contact\/send-a-message\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">schedule an appointment online.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you turn your system on and don&#8217;t feel any cooling, then be sure to follow our guide to alleviate any panic. It&#8217;s going to be okay!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[252,325],"tags":[37,39,13,310],"class_list":["post-3859","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-ac-repair","category-cedar-rapids","tag-ac","tag-ac-repair","tag-air-conditioning","tag-cedar-rapids"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3859","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3859"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3859\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5667,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3859\/revisions\/5667"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3859"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3859"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.daltonphc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3859"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}