AC Running but Not Cooling? Fix Common Issues in Colorado Springs
Is your AC humming along like it’s working—but your house still feels like a heat trap?
If your air conditioner is running but not cooling your home, it could be a sign of a simple issue—or something more serious under the surface. Either way, ignoring it can lead to higher utility bills, unnecessary system strain, and even a full breakdown.
At Townsend Mechanical, we help homeowners across Colorado Springs solve this exact problem every summer. If your air conditioner is running but your home just isn’t cooling down, here are the most common causes—and what you should check first.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
Your first step should always be checking the air filter. If it’s clogged with dust and debris, it limits airflow and prevents cool air from circulating effectively through your home.
Signs include:
- Weak airflow from vents
- Higher energy bills
- Ice forming on refrigerant lines
- Increased dust indoors
Fix: Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If light can’t pass through easily, replace it. You should be changing your filter every 30 to 90 days—more often if you have pets, allergies, or construction nearby.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen coils are one of the most common reasons an AC runs without cooling.
Causes of frozen coils:
- Low refrigerant levels
- Dirty air filters
- Blocked return vents
- Restricted airflow
You may notice ice on the indoor unit or water pooling around it after the system thaws.
Fix: Turn your thermostat to OFF and the fan to ON to help thaw the coils. Then replace your filter and check airflow at each vent. If freezing returns, call us to inspect your refrigerant levels or blower function.
Blocked or Dirty Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor condenser unit is responsible for releasing the heat your system removes from inside the home. If it’s blocked by dirt, leaves, or grass, the heat can’t escape—and your AC can’t cool.
What to look for:
- Grass, mulch, or branches crowding the unit
- Visible dirt or grime on the coil fins
- The fan running, but air inside staying warm
Fix: Clear any debris within 2–3 feet of the unit. Use a hose (low pressure) to gently rinse the coils. Do not open the unit yourself—this can damage the components or void the warranty.
Tripped Breakers or Power Issues
If the indoor unit is running (blowing air) but the outdoor unit isn’t, your home will feel warm even though the AC appears to be working.
Check your breaker panel for:
- A tripped AC or compressor breaker
- Breakers stuck in the middle position
- Recently flipped breakers after a storm or surge
Fix: Reset the breaker by turning it OFF and then ON again. If it trips again immediately, there may be an electrical issue—don’t keep resetting it. Call our team to safely inspect and repair the system.
Thermostat Malfunction or Settings Issue
Sometimes the issue isn’t with your AC—it’s with your thermostat.
Ask yourself:
- Is it set to “cool”and not just “fan”?
- Is the temperature lowerthan your current indoor temp?
- Does the screen display appear normal?
- Are schedules or smart features overriding your settings?
Fix: Replace batteries if needed. Turn the system off, wait a few seconds, then restart. For smart thermostats, check the app for any preset schedules that may be interfering with cooling times.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is what makes the cooling process possible. If your system is low on refrigerant or has a leak, it may run endlessly without producing cool air.
Symptoms include:
- Warm air blowing from vents
- Ice on refrigerant lines
- Hissing or bubbling noises
- Extended cooling cycles
Fix: This is not a DIY job. Refrigerant systems are pressurized and require EPA-certified handling. If you suspect a leak, call Townsend Mechanical to perform a leak test and recharge your system safely.
Failing AC Components
Sometimes, a system that’s running but not cooling is dealing with a partially failed component, such as:
- A worn-out compressor
- A malfunctioning blower motor
- A capacitor or relay that’s failing intermittently
- A dirty or damaged evaporator coil
Fix: These are internal mechanical problems and should be addressed by a licensed HVAC technician. Ignoring them could lead to complete system failure.
Your AC Is Too Old or Inefficient
If your system is 10 to 15 years old, the problem may not be a specific repair—it may be the system itself.
Older systems:
- Lose efficiency every year
- Struggle to handle high outdoor temps
- May use outdated refrigerants like R-22
- Cost more to run and repair than they’re worth
Fix: We can help you evaluate whether a repair or replacement makes more financial sense. Our team provides free estimates for new installations and helps you explore rebates and financing.
Why Choose Townsend Mechanical?
We’ve been serving Colorado Springs homeowners for over 15 years with fast, honest, and high-quality AC repair.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Local, licensed HVAC technicians
- Same-day repair in most cases
- Emergency AC service when you need it
- Straightforward pricing—no surprises
- Service across Monument, Peyton, Falcon, and more
- 5-star reviews and an A+ BBB rating
“Our AC was running all day but blowing warm air. Townsend Mechanical found the problem within minutes, recharged the system, and had the house cool again in under an hour. Couldn’t be happier.”
— Jason M., Colorado Springs
Need Help Now? We’re Just a Call Away.
If your air conditioner is running but your home just isn’t cooling, don’t wait until it turns into a major repair. Let us inspect it before it fails.
Call (719) 659 4648 or schedule an appointment online. Our friendly, experienced techs will get you back to cool—quickly and affordably.
Final Thoughts
Your AC should work hard—but it shouldn’t run constantly without cooling. If your system seems to be on, but your home still feels hot, use this guide to troubleshoot—and then trust Townsend Mechanical to take it from there.
Comfort shouldn’t be a guessing game. Call the pros who know what Colorado homes need.
