Is the outdoor unit running?
Go outside and look. The fan on top should spin and the unit should hum. If it is silent while the indoor fan runs, say so on the call.
AC running but not cooling or blowing warm air?
An AC that runs but blows warm air usually has an airflow problem, a frozen coil, low refrigerant or an outdoor unit that has stopped. Check the filter and thermostat, look for ice, then call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent HVAC technician does the repair.
Am I in the right place?Yes if the system runs and air comes out but the rooms are not cooling, or the air is warm or weak.
Is this urgent?Yes in hot weather or when vulnerable people are inside. If anyone shows signs of heat illness, call 911.
What do I do next?Check the items below, then call 833-877-1717 with the ZIP code, the indoor temperature and whether the outdoor unit is running.
If the system will not turn on at all, use emergency AC repair. Ice on the coil or lines: frozen AC unit.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 13, 2026 · Review standards
Three things to check
Is there ice?
Look at the copper lines at the outdoor unit and the indoor coil area. If you see ice, set the thermostat to off and let it thaw.
Is the filter clogged?
A dirty filter chokes airflow and can freeze the coil. Replace it, and make sure supply and return vents are open and unblocked.
Leave the equipment closed
Do not open the outdoor unit, touch the capacitor, or add refrigerant. Capacitors hold a dangerous charge and refrigerant handling requires certification. If you smell burning or see smoke, turn the system off and call 911 if there is fire.
Common causes of warm air
Outdoor unit not running
Often a capacitor or contactor. See AC capacitor repair or compressor and condenser.
Frozen evaporator coil
Low airflow or low refrigerant. See evaporator coil repair.
Refrigerant leak
The system cools less and less over days or weeks. See refrigerant leak repair.
Dirty outdoor coil or blocked unit
Leaves, grass or debris stop the outdoor unit releasing heat. Keep about 2 feet clear around it.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code, home or business
- Indoor temperature and thermostat setting
- Whether the outdoor unit and its fan run
- Any ice, water leaks, noises or burning smell
- When it last cooled properly
- System brand and age, if known
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles AC repair in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717AC not cooling questions
Why is my AC running but blowing warm air?
Common causes are a clogged filter, a frozen indoor coil, an outdoor unit that has stopped, a failed capacitor or fan motor, or low refrigerant. A technician confirms the cause.
Should I keep running an AC that is not cooling?
If you see ice, hear grinding or smell burning, turn it off. Running a frozen or failing system can damage the compressor.
Can I call at night if my AC stops cooling?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Can I add refrigerant myself?
No. Refrigerant work requires EPA certification, and low refrigerant means there is a leak that needs to be found and repaired.
How long should it take to cool the house?
It depends on size, insulation and the outside temperature. If the house keeps getting warmer while the system runs, something is wrong.
Do providers work on all AC brands?
Independent HVAC providers commonly work on major brands such as Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, Bryant and York. Tell RepairNowUSA the brand on the call. RepairNowUSA is not affiliated with or authorized by any manufacturer, and warranty work may need the manufacturer’s own network.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.