When the heat outside is rising and your air conditioner suddenly stops cooling, frustration can set in fast. At Genuine Heating & Cooling in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, our team gets this question more often than any other. The good news is that most of the time, the issue is minor and easy to fix once you know what to look for. Here’s a complete guide on how to find the cause, prevent future problems, and know when to call professionals for trusted hvac services.

Common reasons your AC runs but doesn’t cool

1. The thermostat setting

Start with the simplest step. Make sure your thermostat is set to “Cool” and the fan is on “Auto.” When it’s left on “On,” the fan blows air constantly even when the compressor isn’t cooling. This can make it feel like your AC is working but not producing cold air.

If the settings look right but the display is blank or unresponsive, replace the batteries. A weak thermostat battery can break the communication between the thermostat and your cooling system.

2. Dirty air filters

A clogged air filter is the number one reason for weak cooling. Dust and debris restrict airflow, making it hard for cold air to pass through. When this happens, your system works overtime, using more energy but giving less comfort.

Try to replace or clean your filter every one to three months. If you live near the coast in Ocean County, salt and humidity can make filters clog faster, check them monthly during peak summer.

3. Blocked or dirty condenser coil

Your outdoor unit, also known as the condenser, is responsible for releasing heat from your home. If the fins are covered in dirt, grass, or sand, the system cannot expel heat efficiently.

To fix this, gently rinse the coils with a garden hose. Never use high pressure, which can bend the fins. If the buildup is severe, schedule a professional cleaning with hvac services from a certified technician.

4. Low refrigerant levels

Refrigerant is the chemical that absorbs heat from your indoor air. If your system is low on refrigerant, you might feel lukewarm air or notice the outdoor lines covered in frost. Low refrigerant usually means there’s a leak somewhere in the system.

This isn’t a DIY fix. A qualified technician must locate the leak, repair it, and recharge the refrigerant to the manufacturer’s specifications. Continuing to run the system in this condition can damage the compressor, which is one of the costliest components to replace.

5. Faulty compressor or capacitor

If your system hums but doesn’t start cooling, the issue might be an electrical component like the capacitor. The capacitor provides the initial jolt of energy needed to start the motor. Over time, it can wear out due to age and heat.

A technician can test and replace this small but crucial part quickly. If the compressor itself has failed, your technician will help you decide whether repair or replacement makes more sense based on the system’s age and efficiency.

How to troubleshoot before calling for help

When your AC isn’t cooling, here’s a quick checklist before scheduling a service visit:

• Make sure the thermostat is set correctly.
• Replace the air filter.
• Inspect the circuit breaker and reset if tripped.
• Check the outdoor unit for obstructions.
• Ensure all vents are open and unblocked by furniture.

If the system still fails to cool after these steps, call a professional. A local expert can inspect the refrigerant level, test electrical components, and confirm that the system is running safely.

Why regular maintenance prevents most cooling problems

Most major breakdowns start as small issues: dirty filters, minor leaks, weak capacitors. Regular inspections allow technicians to spot these early and keep your system running smoothly.

During a maintenance visit, a Genuine Heating & Cooling technician will:

• Clean coils and condensate drains
• Inspect refrigerant pressures
• Check voltage and amperage
• Test safety controls
• Calibrate thermostats
• Inspect ductwork for air leaks

This preventive approach not only extends the life of your system but also keeps your energy bills under control. Well-maintained air conditioners run up to 15% more efficiently than neglected ones.

How the New Jersey climate affects your AC

Homes in Point Pleasant and along the Jersey Shore face unique challenges. Salt air, high humidity, and sand can all shorten the life of outdoor components. To protect your investment:

• Keep the outdoor unit elevated if flooding is possible.
• Schedule seasonal coil cleaning.
• Apply corrosion-resistant coatings where possible.
• Use filters rated for humid environments.

Genuine Heating & Cooling designs maintenance plans specifically for coastal homes to reduce these risks and ensure year-round comfort.

When it’s time to consider replacement

If your AC is more than ten years old and repairs are becoming frequent, replacing it may save money in the long run. Newer systems offer better energy efficiency, quieter operation, and improved humidity control.

A trusted technician will perform a full load calculation, evaluate your home’s insulation, and recommend a properly sized system. Oversized units cycle too quickly, while undersized systems run constantly and still fail to cool evenly.

Why trust Genuine Heating & Cooling

At Genuine Heating & Cooling, every technician is trained and licensed to handle both simple and complex air conditioning issues. The team prioritizes honest diagnostics, upfront pricing, and long-term solutions instead of quick fixes.

Serving Point Pleasant and nearby towns like Brick, Toms River, and Howell, Genuine Heating & Cooling offers:

• 24/7 emergency repair
• Comprehensive maintenance plans
• Energy-efficient system upgrades
• Indoor air quality improvements
• Professional installation backed by warranty

With years of experience in Ocean and Monmouth counties, they know exactly how to handle the challenges of coastal weather and salt air.

How to keep your AC healthy all summer

Here are a few simple habits that make a big difference:

• Schedule spring tune-ups before the first heatwave.
• Keep at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit.
• Clean supply and return vents every few weeks.
• Avoid setting your thermostat lower than 70° F. It strains the system.
• Run ceiling fans to improve air circulation.

Following these steps helps you stay comfortable and lowers the risk of mid-season breakdowns.

The Genuine approach to customer care

When you call us, you speak directly with a local expert, not an automated system. Every service call is handled by trained professionals who respect your home, protect your floors, and explain every finding in clear terms.

The company’s reputation has been built on honesty, craftsmanship, and a focus on relationships rather than transactions. Homeowners appreciate the clear communication and the peace of mind that comes from knowing help is always nearby.

Final thoughts

When your air conditioner runs but doesn’t cool, the problem could be as simple as a dirty filter or as complex as a refrigerant leak. The key is not to ignore it. A small issue today can turn into a major repair tomorrow.

For residents of Point Pleasant and nearby New Jersey towns, Genuine Heating & Cooling offers dependable hvac services that keep your system efficient, reliable, and ready for every season. Whether it’s a routine checkup or an urgent repair, their team is ready to help your home stay cool, comfortable, and energy-efficient all year round.