When it’s 85 degrees in Vancouver and your AC starts pumping out hot air, it’s more than frustrating—it’s uncomfortable. We hear this question all the time from homeowners across Clark County: why is my AC blowing hot air? The good news is, there are several common reasons behind this issue, and most of them are fixable. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we’ve helped families all over the Vancouver area stay cool again fast—and we’re here to walk you through what might be going wrong.
Thermostat Troubles: Start Here
This might sound obvious, but we’ve seen it more times than we can count. A simple thermostat mistake can make your AC blow hot air. Sometimes it gets accidentally switched to “heat.” Other times, the fan setting is on “on” instead of “auto,” which means it’s just blowing room-temperature air when the cooling cycle isn’t active. Always double-check your thermostat before assuming it’s a major issue.
Why Is My AC Blowing Hot Air? Check the Air Filter
One of the most overlooked reasons behind poor cooling is a dirty air filter. When the filter gets clogged, airflow becomes restricted. That puts strain on your system and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze up or overheat. Either way, you may notice your AC starts blowing warm air instead of cold. We always recommend checking or replacing your filter every 1–3 months, especially during heavy use in the summer.
Refrigerant Leaks: A Common Culprit
If you’re still wondering why is my AC blowing hot air, a refrigerant leak might be to blame. Refrigerant is what actually cools the air in your system. When levels drop too low, your AC can’t effectively remove heat from your home. You may even hear a hissing sound or notice ice forming on the outdoor unit. Handling refrigerant requires an EPA-certified technician, which is exactly what we offer here at Sub Zero Temp Control.
Electrical Issues Can Shut Down Cooling
Another reason your AC might be blowing hot air? A tripped breaker or faulty capacitor. Your indoor unit and outdoor condenser need to work together to cool your home. If the outdoor unit loses power—due to a blown fuse or breaker—it can’t do its job, and your system will blow warm air. If you’re in Vancouver and this is happening, give our team a call. We can safely inspect and restore power to your AC components.
Dirty Coils or Condenser: Heat Has Nowhere to Go
Over time, your outdoor condenser coil can get covered in dirt, dust, and leaves—especially here in the Pacific Northwest. When that happens, the system can’t release heat effectively. As a result, the whole cooling cycle breaks down. If you’re wondering why is my AC blowing hot air, and you haven’t cleaned your outdoor unit in a while, it could be the problem. We offer thorough maintenance and cleaning services throughout Vancouver to keep your unit in top shape.
Why Is My AC Blowing Hot Air? Air Duct Problems Might Be the Root
Even if your AC is working properly, leaky or uninsulated ducts can let warm air in and cool air out. This is especially true in older homes. If your AC seems to cool some rooms but not others—or if the air feels warm by the time it hits the vents—your ductwork might need an inspection.
Still Asking Why Is My AC Blowing Hot Air?
If you’ve checked your thermostat, filter, and power supply and still can’t solve the problem, it’s time to call in the pros. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we’ve seen it all—from failing compressors to hidden refrigerant leaks. Our technicians show up ready to diagnose and repair the issue so you can get back to enjoying your cool home. Whether you’re in Hazel Dell, Salmon Creek, or right here in Vancouver, we’re just a call away.
Don’t Wait—Get Your Cool Air Back Today
So, why is my AC blowing hot air? It could be something simple, or it might require a professional fix. Either way, don’t wait until it gets worse. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we’re proud to serve our neighbors across Vancouver, WA, with honest, reliable HVAC repairs. Contact us today and let us help you stay cool and comfortable.
