Your aircon is running, but the room just isn't getting cold. Before you assume the worst, work through these common causes. Some you can check yourself in a few minutes.
1. Wrong settings on the remote
It sounds obvious, but it happens often. Check that the mode is set to Cool (not Fan, Dry or Auto), the temperature is set below the room temperature, and the timer or eco mode isn't limiting the unit.
2. Dirty air filters
Clogged filters block airflow, so less cool air reaches the room. Remove and rinse the filters with water, let them dry fully, and put them back. Many households find this alone makes a noticeable difference.
3. Dirty cooling coil
Even with clean filters, fine dust and mould build up on the cooling coil over time and stop it from absorbing heat properly. This needs a general service, or a chemical jet wash if the build-up is heavy.
4. Dirty or blocked outdoor unit
The outdoor condenser releases the heat taken from your room. If its fins are clogged with dust, or things are stacked around it, it can't get rid of that heat and cooling suffers. Clear the area around it, and have the condenser cleaned if it's dirty.
5. Low refrigerant
Refrigerant is what carries heat out of your room. If the level is low, cooling becomes weak, and sometimes you'll see ice on the indoor coil. Refrigerant doesn't "run out" with normal use, so a low level usually means a leak that a technician should find and fix.
6. Unit too small for the room
If the aircon has never cooled the room well, it may simply be undersized, for example after combining two rooms or in a room with strong afternoon sun. A technician can advise whether a different unit or replacement makes sense.
7. Electrical or compressor fault
If the indoor fan blows but the outdoor unit doesn't start, or it starts and stops repeatedly, there may be an electrical or compressor problem. This needs professional diagnosis. Please don't open electrical panels yourself.
When to call a technician
- Cleaning the filters and checking the settings didn't help
- You see ice on the indoor unit or pipes
- The outdoor unit isn't running, or makes unusual noises
- Cooling is weak and water is leaking too
An aircon diagnosis costs $40, inclusive of transport, and the fee is waived when you confirm the repair with us. Book a visit and we'll get your room cold again.
