AC & Cooling Questions Homeowners Ask
Clear answers in plain language — what to check first, what’s normal, what’s not, and when to call for help. If your AC runs but won’t cool, freezes up, cycles too fast, or trips power, use the steps below to troubleshoot safely.
This guide is from Kais Pro Repairs. Need help now? Call (943) 289-5667 or book here: Request Service.
Safety note: If you smell burning, see sparking, hear buzzing/arcing, or your breaker won’t reset, stop and call right away. If you’re dealing with a breaker/power issue, start here: Breaker/Panel Help.
AC Troubleshooting by Symptoms
Choose what matches your situation. These are the most common homeowner symptoms we see in Loganville and nearby areas.
AC Running, Not Cooling
- Check thermostat: COOL + AUTO
- Replace/inspect filter
- Confirm outdoor unit is running
If it’s still warm: Request Service
Frozen Coil / Ice on Lines
- Turn system OFF to prevent damage
- Set fan ON to help thaw
- Replace filter + open vents
If it refreezes: Schedule Diagnosis
Breaker Trips / Power Issues
- Reset once only (if safe)
- If it trips again, stop
- Likely electrical or motor/capacitor issue
Start here: Breaker Help
Weak Airflow / Hot Rooms
- Dirty filter or blocked return
- Closed vents / duct restriction
- Blower or coil issue
Uneven cooling? Ask a Tech
Quick AC Checklist Homeowners Can Do Safely
These checks solve a lot of “AC not cooling” calls — and help you avoid damage from running a struggling system.
Thermostat
Set to COOL, fan to AUTO, and lower the setpoint 3–5° below room temp.
Filter
A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of weak airflow and frozen coils.
Vents
Make sure supply/return vents aren’t blocked by furniture or rugs.
Outdoor unit
Confirm it’s running and not packed with leaves/debris (keep a clear area around it).
Drain
If you see water around the indoor unit, the condensate drain may be clogged.
Breaker
If the AC breaker trips repeatedly, stop resetting it and get it checked.
If breakers are tripping: Breaker & Panel Repair
Common AC & Cooling Questions (Answers You Can Use)
What to check first, what the symptoms usually mean, and when it’s time to stop troubleshooting and call.
“My AC is running but not cooling — what’s the first thing to check?”
Start with the basics: thermostat settings, a clean filter, and strong airflow from vents. If airflow is weak, it often points to a dirty filter, blocked return, blower issue, or a frozen coil.
If you want diagnosis: Heating & Cooling Service
“Why is my AC blowing warm air?”
- Thermostat on HEAT or FAN mode (set to COOL + AUTO)
- Dirty filter restricting airflow
- Outdoor unit not running (capacitor, contactor, fan motor)
- Dirty condenser coil
- Refrigerant leak / low charge
Need help: Request Service
“My indoor coil / refrigerant line is frozen — what causes that?”
A frozen coil almost always means low airflow or refrigerant issues. The most common homeowner cause is a clogged filter or blocked return vent. Running it while frozen can damage the system.
- Turn the system OFF (or set fan to ON to help thaw).
- Replace the filter and open vents.
- Let it thaw fully before restarting.
“My AC keeps turning on and off (short cycling). Why?”
- Dirty filter / airflow restriction
- Thermostat location or settings issues
- Overheating outdoor unit (dirty coil, failing fan motor)
- System oversized or controls/limits problem
Short cycling increases wear and power use — worth fixing early.
“Why is my house cooling unevenly?”
Uneven cooling is usually airflow and distribution: dirty filter, closed vents, duct restrictions/leaks, or return air problems. It can also happen if the system is undersized or insulation is weak in certain rooms.
“My AC breaker trips — can I keep resetting it?”
If it trips once, you can reset it one time after checking the filter and making sure the outdoor unit isn’t jammed with debris. If it trips again, stop resetting it. Repeated trips can mean a failing capacitor, motor, short, or an electrical issue.
Start here: Breaker & Electrical Panel Repair
When You Should Stop Troubleshooting and Call a Pro
If any of these are happening, it’s safer (and usually cheaper) to diagnose early than to keep running it.
Electrical risk signs
- Breaker trips repeatedly
- Buzzing/arcing sounds
- Any burning smell
Freeze-ups
- Coil freezes again after filter/airflow checks
- Airflow stays weak even with a clean filter
Outdoor unit problems
- Won’t start, hums, or fan won’t spin
- Stops quickly after starting
Water / damage risk
- Water leaking around indoor unit
- Ceiling/wall staining near equipment
Frequently Asked AC & Cooling Questions
Fast answers — and if you want help, we’ll diagnose and explain clear options before any repair.
How often should I change my AC filter?
Is it normal for the outside unit to run constantly?
Why is there water around my indoor unit?
What causes weak airflow from vents?
Do I need maintenance even if my AC is cooling?
My AC breaker trips — what should I do first?
Request Service
Want a technician instead of troubleshooting? Send a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.