Why is My Air Conditioner Not Heating?

Air conditioners generally cool your home. Many models, when operated in reverse, bring heat to inside spaces. They keep you toasty warm in cool weather. What if your air conditioner is not heating? What can you do? The following are the common causes and fixes for an air conditioner that fails to heat.  

Reasons an Air Conditioner Isn’t Heating

If your air conditioner is not heating, check for the following problems. 

• Thermostat problems: Incorrect thermostat settings cause a unit’s heat mode to malfunction. Check that your thermostat is on the heat setting and is set higher than the room temperature. If your thermostat requires batteries, replace them. 
• Poor airflow: Your air conditioner may be heating poorly due to restricted airflow. Clogged or dirty air filters can cause poor airflow. If this is the problem, clean or replace your filters. Duct/vent issues can also cause poor airflow. Check that vents are open and not obstructed. Remove accumulated debris from the ductwork. A compressor that is failing can cause poor airflow. If this is your problem, have an HVAC expert check your unit.
• Malfunctioning components: A defective heat exchanger, faulty sensors, or a broken heating element can cause an air conditioner to heat insufficiently. If this is your situation, schedule service and repair with a reputable air conditioning technician.
• Incorrect system size: If your unit is not large enough for your home, it will not adequately heat your space. An oversized unit will have a short cycle and heat inefficiently. Consult a professional. They perform load calculations, determining the right size heating/cooling system for your house. 
• Electrical issues: A cooling/heating system can malfunction due to electrical problems (blown fuses, faulty wiring, tripped breakers, etc.). Check the connections in your unit, ensuring they are secure and damage-free. Reset breakers. 
• Refrigerant leaks: Refrigerant leaks impede the unit’s ability to generate heat. Contact an HVAC specialist. They’ll inspect your unit for leaks, repair the leak, and recharge the refrigerant. 
• Dirty condenser coils or evaporator: Debris and dirt accumulate on condenser coils and the evaporator, preventing heat transfer. Clean the coils regularly to remove buildup. Keep the area around the unit clear of obstructions. 
• Malfunctioning blower motor: An underperforming blower hinders the distribution of warm air. Inspect the blower for damage. See an HVAC professional for repair or replacement.  
• Clogged drain line: Condensation produced by an air conditioning unit exits through the drain line. If this line is blocked, water builds up in the unit, causing heat problems. Use a dry/wet vacuum to flush the line with water and vinegar. Schedule regular maintenance with a technician. 

Is your air conditioning unit failing to heat? Is your unit functionality less than optimal? Contact the experts at McMillin Air. We service and repair all makes and models. We’ll help keep your home at a comfortable temperature.