After a cleaning, you likely don't have a dirty compressor. However, it can still experience several issues like electrical problems, overheating, lack of lubrication, or damaged suction lines.
In AC systems, the air conditioner reset button is on the outside unit's lower edge, typically close to the ground. Some models have the reset button located behind the service panel, which may require tools to remove. Reset buttons are usually red or yellow with a clear “reset” label.
Turn the air conditioner off, while the air conditioner is off, push the dirty filter reset button. Then turn the air conditioner on and see if this does anything?
One of the ways is to make sure the air filter is clean. If you find it clogged with debris, clean it with a brush. A popular cause behind an AC that is not cooling is the deficiency of refrigerant or Freon. When refrigerant circulates together with the air, your room will be filled with cool air.
If the AC is still not blowing cold air, it could signify that you have a refrigerant leak, a damaged condenser, or your entire mechanical system needs maintenance. However, other reasons your HVAC unit is not blowing cold air may be something you can easily fix yourself.
Turning on the AC Too Soon
Wait at least 30 to 60 minutes for the unit to dry. Water and dampness can interfere with the unit's operation and cause electrical components to short circuit.
Rinse the coils with water from a spray bottle. Avoid hosing down the indoor unit, as this could damage the unit and create an unpleasant odor. Dry the coils as much as possible with a soft towel or allow them to air dry. Reattach the access panel and turn on the AC unit.
In most cases, the small red reset button is inside the AC's compressor. If unsure, you can always refer to the user's manual to find the exact location.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
Once you locate it, turn the knob to the off position and leave it for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. This will allow the electrically operated components in the AC to reset.
If You Don't Have a Reset Button on Your Outdoor Unit
Unplug the unit from the power supply board and disconnect the system. This ensures that the AC unit is receiving no power whatsoever. Wait 30 minutes, then plug the unit back in.
The main reason for resetting your cooling system is a tripped breaker. Like most electrical appliances, an air conditioning unit has its own individual circuit breaker — two, to be exact. One operates on the outside, while the other operates on the inside.
Initially, make sure that all of the moisture and water is expelled from the air conditioner unit. If moisture or water droplets remain in the air conditioner due to cleaning, it may cause corrosion or other physical damage. After draining the water, leave your unit for a few more hours to dry completely.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
Power down your AC: Turn off your AC unit and unplug it from the power source. This will ensure that you stay safe while working on the unit. Locate the reset button: Most air conditioning units have a reset button located near the outside unit. It is usually a small button located inside a small hole.
Use the Reset Button on AC Unit
Don't worry; the reset button might be able to solve the issue after a sudden disconnection or power outage. You can press the “Reset” button on the air conditioning unit, often shown as a small red button, to bring your air conditioning unit back to life.
Never use acid-type cleaners indoors. Always spray downwind when cleaning outdoor condenser coils. Use a gentle hose nozzle to rinse off chemical cleaners, never a high-powered pressure washer.
Spray a generous amount of cleaner onto the inside of the coil assembly and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes (follow directions on the can, obviously). After that, you can use your brush (or even just a gloved hand) to lightly agitate any dirt or debris that might still be clinging to the coils.
Your unit seems to be running longer for no reason.
When the AC coils are dirty, the unit has to work longer and harder to cool the inside space. You'll hear the blower running and feel air coming out of the ducts for a long period of time.
This can be caused by restricted airflow from a dirty filter (even a new one!), low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning fan motor. Signs of frozen coils include warm air blowing from the vents and ice buildup on the evaporator coil, which is located inside the indoor unit.
Depending on the system, an optimal time of 3 minutes is required before switching the system on. If the system is turned on without waiting for at least 3 minutes, the system can start with a pressure load. This pressure load prevents the system from cooling properly, which could affect the system in the long run.
Rinse the filter with clean water and let it air dry. If you are wondering how long to wait after cleaning an air conditioner, it takes at least three hours before you put the filter back in for it to be safe to turn on again.