Low or No Airflow from AC: Step-by-Step Diagnosis

During sweltering summer days in the Buffalo region, the last thing you want to worry about is having an indoor environment that’s overly stuffy and warm because your AC isn’t performing as expected. Low or no airflow from your AC can be frustrating, but don’t worry. Diagnosing the problem doesn’t have to be complicated.

In this guide, the cooling experts at Isaac Heating & Air Conditioning provide a comprehensive overview of how to diagnose low airflow issues in your AC before calling the professionals.

What To Check Inside Your Home

It’s important to rule out any issues inside your home before heading to your outdoor unit for inspection. Here are a few places you should check indoors to see what might be causing poor airflow issues with your air conditioner:

Check Your Thermostat & Vents

The first place to check is your thermostat. Ensure it’s set to cool and at a temperature that should trigger the air conditioner to startup. Ensure that the thermostat has operating batteries and is wired correctly. Finally, inspect your vents to ensure they are free of obstructions and not blocked by furniture.

Check Your Circuit Breaker

If your thermostat seems to be in order, move on to your circuit breaker to see if that’s what’s causing your airflow issues. In some cases — especially on hot days when systems are prone to overheating — the HVAC breaker may trip, cutting power to your unit and causing poor airflow.

Check Your Air Filter

Dirty air filters can significantly reduce airflow, causing your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to. Locate your air filter and inspect it for excess dirt or debris. If the filter looks clogged, it’s time to clean or replace it. A good rule of thumb is to check and replace your air filter every one to three months, depending on usage.

Checking the AC Unit Outside Your Home

If you don’t find any culprits to blame inside your home, it’s time to head out to your outdoor unit for a closer look. Here’s what to check:

Check the AC’s Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are located in the outdoor unit of your AC system. These coils are responsible for releasing heat absorbed from inside your home into the outdoor air. Over time, dirt, debris, leaves, and pollen can accumulate on the coils, hindering heat transfer and reducing airflow. Inspect the coils for any obstructions and clean them as needed using a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.

Check the Blow Fan Blades

The blower fan is located inside the outdoor unit and is responsible for circulating air over the evaporator coils to cool your home. If the fan blades are covered in dust and dirt, they won’t be able to move air efficiently. Turn off the power to the AC unit before inspecting the fan blades. Once the power is off, carefully clean the fan blades using a soft brush or a damp cloth.

Call Isaac if These Steps Don’t Work

If you’re still experiencing issues after following these step-by-step instructions, you may have a more severe problem that needs to be addressed by a trained technician. The expert team at Isaac is here to help put your cooling system worries to rest. With 24-hour service availability, our licensed and certified technicians will deliver the prompt, professional response you deserve to keep your system in proper working condition — even on the hottest days of the year.

Schedule air conditioning repair in Rochester, NY, by contacting our team at (585) 546-1400 to book your appointment today!