Why Is My AC Running But Not Cooling in Tampa?

If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air but running, you’re not alone — this is one of the most common complaints we hear from Tampa homeowners. You set the thermostat to cool things down, but all you get is warm air or weak airflow. What’s going on?

There’s no single answer. Sometimes the issue is as simple as a clogged air filter. Other times, it’s a deeper problem, like a refrigerant leak or blocked duct. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons your air conditioner is on but not cooling, and when it’s time to call Rolando’s HVAC for expert diagnosis.

In Tampa’s humid, coastal environment, AC systems face added stress from salt exposure, year-round heat, and seasonal allergens. These local conditions often lead to clogged outdoor units, faster filter clogging, and early refrigerant wear—causing many systems to run but not cool properly.

Need fast help? Explore our full list of air conditioning services in Tampa for quick troubleshooting, emergency repairs, and same-day service.

What Causes an AC to Run But Not Cool?

Dirty Air Filter or Blocked Vents

Restricted airflow is a top reason an air conditioner may be running but not blowing cold air. In Tampa, air filters clog quickly with dust, pollen, and even air pollution, especially during peak humidity and allergy seasons. A dirty air filter strains your HVAC system, causing poor airflow, overheating, and reduced indoor air quality.

Signs of this problem include:

• Weak or no airflow from vents
• Warm air blowing even when the AC is on
• AC unit running continuously
• Musty smell due to mold or mildew growth

Check your filter monthly and replace it every 30–60 days for better cooling efficiency and home improvement.

Low Refrigerant or Leak

Your AC needs refrigerant (also known as coolant) to remove heat from indoor air and transfer it outside via the condenser. A leak or low levels can interrupt this cycle, leading to longer run times, warm air at the vents, and ice forming on the evaporator coil.

Common causes of leaks include corrosion, vibration damage, and aging parts.

If your system is low on refrigerant, adding more won’t fix the problem long-term. At Rolando’s HVAC, we always check for leaks first—Tampa’s humidity and vibration-prone ducting make small leaks more likely over time.

Is your AC working but not cooling? A refrigerant leak could be to blame. Learn more about how refrigerant leaks affect your AC in Tampa—and what to do about it.

Leaky or Blocked Air Ducts

Your duct system moves cooled air throughout your home. If the ducts are leaking, damaged, or blocked, much of that air can escape into the attic or behind walls. This makes it seem like your HVAC system is working but not cooling.

These problems are often mistaken for system failure, but can be fixed with a duct inspection and repair.

Not sure if bad ductwork is to blame? Learn how leaky ducts can make your Tampa AC work too hard.

Dirty Outdoor Condenser Unit (Especially in Tampa)

Your outdoor condenser is constantly exposed to the elements — including salt, sand, grass, and yard debris in Tampa’s coastal climate. When the condenser coils get blocked, heat transfer suffers, and your AC can’t release the warm air it collects from inside your home.

You can safely rinse coils with a hose — just turn off the power first. If debris buildup is stubborn, call for air conditioning maintenance.

We see salt buildup on outdoor condenser units all the time in Town ‘n’ Country and coastal parts of Tampa. Even a light coating can reduce cooling by 20–30%.

Thermostat Problems

A faulty thermostat may cause the system to run in the wrong mode or ignore the actual temperature in your home. This is especially common with aging or battery-powered models.

Try:

• Replacing the batteries
• Recalibrating the thermostat
• Replacing outdated models with a smart thermostat

Sometimes, it’s the thermostat, not the system, causing your AC to run without cooling.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

If your evaporator coil freezes over, it can block airflow and cause your air handler to blow warm or no air. Common causes include low refrigerant, poor airflow, and drain issues.

Look for signs like:

• Ice buildup on copper lines
• Water pooling near the air handler
• AC runs but no cold air

Turn the system off and schedule a repair before water damage or mold becomes an issue.

Electrical or Compressor Issues

Is your AC not cooling but fan is running? The problem may lie in the electrical system. When components like the capacitor, contactor, fuse, or circuit breaker fail, the compressor might stop working—even though the indoor fan keeps blowing.

You might notice:

• The outdoor unit is silent
• AC runs endlessly without cooling
• Breakers trip repeatedly

These situations require a licensed HVAC technician or electrician to safely test for voltage, replace faulty parts, and restore full system function.

Poor Attic Insulation

Don’t overlook your attic. If it's uninsulated or poorly insulated, heat builds up and radiates into your living space — especially in Florida’s humid climate. This makes it harder for your AC to cool upstairs rooms and can cause the system to run continuously.

Think insulation might be the real problem? Learn how energy-saving attic insulation helps Tampa homes stay cooler and reduces air conditioning system strain. 

Should I Turn Off My AC If It’s Not Cooling?

Yes — in many cases. If you notice ice, water, or signs of electrical issues, turn the system off and avoid further damage. If it's just a minor airflow issue, you can keep it running while scheduling service.

Best practice? Shut off the system and schedule a diagnostic inspection with a licensed HVAC technician.

How to Reset Your AC (and When It Actually Works)

Some Tampa homeowners try a reset when their AC is not working properly. Here’s how:

• Turn off your AC at the thermostat
• Locate the breaker switch and flip it offIf your air conditioner is not blowing cold air but running, you’re not alone — this is one of the most common complaints we hear from Tampa homeowners.If your air conditioner is not blowing cold air but running, you’re not alone — this is one of the most common complaints we hear from Tampa homeowners.
• Wait 60 seconds, then turn it back on
• Restart the thermostat and set to cool

This works temporarily for sensor glitches or minor thermostat errors, but it won’t help with leaks, frozen coils, or broken components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my AC running but not blowing cold air?

A dirty filter, refrigerant leak, thermostat issue, or frozen coil are all common reasons. In Tampa, salt exposure and clogged condensers are also frequent culprits.

Can a clogged air filter make my AC run but not cool?

Yes, restricted airflow prevents proper cooling and can even freeze your evaporator coil.

Should I turn off my AC if it’s not cooling?

Yes. Running a failing system can cause further damage. Shut it down and call a licensed HVAC technician.

AC Still Not Cooling? Call Rolando’s HVAC

If you’ve already changed the air filter, cleared your vents, tried a reset, and still have AC running but not cooling, it’s time to bring in an HVAC expert. At Rolando’s HVAC, our trained contractors can quickly pinpoint the root issue — whether it’s a refrigerant leak, electrical failure, damaged pump, or worn-out compressor.

We handle air conditioner repair for all major brands, including Trane, Daikin, Goodman, and Lennox. If your system is over 12 years old, we’ll help you upgrade to a more efficient, energy-saving model with the right capacity for your space and budget. Explore our AC installation services in Tampa to learn more.

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