It's 95 degrees outside, you set your thermostat to 72, and... warm air. Your AC is running, the fan is blowing, but the air coming out of the vents isn't cold. This is one of the most common service calls we get at Kimco, especially during Texas summers.
Check These First (Before You Call)
Thermostat settings. It sounds obvious, but check that your thermostat is set to "cool" and not "fan only." Fan mode circulates air without engaging the compressor — so you get airflow but no cooling. Also make sure someone didn't bump the temperature setting.
Air filter. A clogged air filter is the #1 cause of AC problems we see. When the filter is blocked, airflow drops and the evaporator coil can freeze over. Pull your filter out and hold it up to a light — if you can't see through it, replace it. This alone fixes the problem about 30% of the time.
Circuit breaker. Your AC system has two components: the indoor air handler and the outdoor condenser. They're often on separate breakers. If the outdoor unit's breaker tripped, the fan will still blow inside but there's no cooling happening. Check your electrical panel and reset if needed.
Common Causes That Need a Professional
Refrigerant leak. Your AC doesn't "use up" refrigerant — if it's low, there's a leak. Low refrigerant means the system can't absorb heat effectively, so it blows warm. You might notice ice forming on the refrigerant lines or hear a hissing sound. This requires a licensed technician to locate the leak, repair it, and recharge the system.
Dirty condenser coils. The outdoor unit's condenser coils release heat from your home into the outside air. When they're caked with dirt, grass clippings, or cottonwood, the system can't dissipate heat efficiently. While you can gently hose down the outside unit, a deep cleaning is best left to a pro.
Failed compressor. The compressor is the heart of your AC system. When it fails, the refrigerant doesn't circulate and no cooling happens. Compressor failure usually means the system is older (10+ years) and replacement of the outdoor unit — or the entire system — may be more cost-effective than repair.
Faulty capacitor. The capacitor gives the compressor and fan motors the electrical boost they need to start. When a capacitor fails, the compressor may not engage even though the fan is running. This is a relatively inexpensive repair — usually $150–$300 including parts and labor.
When to Call for Help
If you've checked the thermostat, filter, and breakers and your AC is still blowing warm, it's time to call a professional. Running the system while it's not cooling properly can cause further damage — especially if the issue is low refrigerant or a frozen coil.
At Kimco, we offer next-day diagnostic appointments for situations exactly like this. We'll diagnose the issue, explain your options, and give you a flat-rate price before any work starts. No surprises.