Is Your AC Running but Not Cooling? Here’s What Might Be Going On

There’s nothing more frustrating than turning on your air conditioner during a Las Vegas heatwave, only to realize it’s running but not cooling the house. If you ask yourself, “Why is my AC running but not cooling?” you’re not alone. This is one of the most common summer HVAC issues.

Here’s what might happen, and when to call in Las Vegas AC repair.

1. Dirty Air Filter

A clogged or dirty air filter is one of the easiest problems to fix, and one of the most common causes of poor cooling. When the filter gets blocked, it restricts airflow, making it harder for your system to push cold air through your home. This can make it feel like the AC is running but not cooling the house.

What to do: Check your air filter. If it’s covered in dust, replace it. In Las Vegas’s dusty climate, filters should typically be changed every 1–3 months.

2. Thermostat Issues

Sometimes the problem isn’t the AC unit, it’s the thermostat. If your thermostat is incorrectly calibrated or set to the wrong mode (like “fan” instead of “cool”), your system may be running without producing cold air.

What to do: Double-check that your thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is lower than the current room temperature. If it still isn’t cooling, you may need a thermostat recalibration or replacement.

3. Low Refrigerant Levels

Your air conditioner needs refrigerant to absorb heat from your home and release it outside. If your system is low on refrigerant, usually due to a leak, it won’t be able to cool the air properly, even though it continues to run.

What to do: This isn’t a DIY fix. A licensed Elite Heating and AC Repair technician can inspect your refrigerant levels, locate leaks, and recharge your system.

4. Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coil inside your indoor unit can collect dust over time. In some cases, it can even freeze up due to airflow problems or low refrigerant. This prevents the coil from absorbing heat and cooling your home.

What to do: If you notice ice around the indoor unit or weak airflow, turn the system off and call for professional service. Continuing to run it can cause further damage.

5. Outdoor Unit Issues

If your indoor unit seems fine but the AC is not cooling the house, the problem may be outside. Your condenser coil could be clogged with debris, or the compressor may malfunction.

What to do: Clear any visible debris from around the outdoor unit. If it still isn’t cooling, it’s time to schedule an inspection.

Call for Fast, Reliable Las Vegas AC Repair

When your AC is running but not cooling, don’t wait, especially in the desert heat. The Elite Heating and AC Repair team is available for fast, affordable service across Las Vegas and surrounding areas. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more serious issue, we’ll get your home cool and comfortable.