When summer hits Vancouver, WA, there’s nothing worse than your AC running but not cooling your home. We’ve all been there—your system sounds like it’s working, but the temperature won’t budge. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we hear this complaint all the time, especially during heatwaves. So, let’s walk through some of the most common reasons this happens—and what you can do about it.
AC Running But Not Cooling? Start With the Thermostat
Before you panic, double-check your thermostat. Believe it or not, this is often where the issue starts. Sometimes, the fan setting is set to “On” instead of “Auto.” When that happens, your AC might blow air constantly, but it won’t actually cool it.
Also, if someone bumped the settings or the batteries are low, your unit could act up. So, always start with the basics first.
Dirty Filters Can Block Airflow
Here’s one we run into all the time across Clark County: dirty filters. If you haven’t changed yours in a while, that buildup can restrict airflow and stop the system from cooling efficiently.
Even if you hear the AC running but not cooling, a clogged filter could be preventing the cold air from reaching your rooms. Try changing the filter and see if it makes a difference—it’s a quick fix that often solves the problem.
AC Running But Not Cooling? It Could Be Low Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the key player in actually cooling your home. If your system is low on it—or if there’s a leak—you’ll notice your AC running but not cooling like it should.
This issue isn’t something you can fix on your own. You’ll need a certified tech (like someone from Sub Zero Temp Control) to safely handle and recharge the refrigerant. We’ve fixed refrigerant issues in homes from Fisher’s Landing East to Hazel Dell.
Outdoor Unit Could Be Dirty or Blocked
Sometimes, the indoor unit is working fine—but the outdoor condenser is clogged with leaves, dust, or debris. If that outside unit can’t breathe, your whole system suffers.
We’ve cleaned out more than a few overgrown condensers in backyards throughout Vancouver. Give yours a look. If it’s covered in grime, that could be why you’ve got an AC running but not cooling.
Frozen Evaporator Coils Are Another Red Flag
If your AC keeps running and blowing lukewarm air, frozen evaporator coils could be the culprit. These coils get too cold when airflow is restricted or refrigerant is low, which causes them to freeze up.
It sounds weird, but frozen coils actually stop the system from cooling. We’ve seen this happen more often than you’d expect.
Your System Might Be the Wrong Size
This one’s often overlooked, but if your AC is too small—or too big—for your home, it won’t work efficiently. Undersized units run constantly and struggle to cool. Oversized units cool too fast without removing humidity, which leaves you feeling clammy and uncomfortable.
If you’ve just moved into a new home in Vancouver or had a system installed without a proper load calculation, this could be the reason your AC is running but not cooling properly.
When to Call Sub Zero Temp Control for an AC Running But Not Cooling
If you’ve checked the basics and your system still isn’t cooling, give us a call. At Sub Zero Temp Control, we offer honest diagnostics, no pushy upsells, and fast solutions. We’ve helped homeowners all over Vancouver—from Salmon Creek to Cascade Highlands—get their comfort back.
You don’t have to live with your AC running but not cooling. Let’s fix it the right way. Contact Sub Zero Temp Control today to schedule your AC service in Vancouver, WA or the surrounding areas. You can call us, message us online, or book an appointment at your convenience—we’re here to help.
