If your air conditioner is running but not blowing cold air, you’re not alone—especially during the hot and humid summers in Wilmington, NC. It’s a frustrating issue that many homeowners face. The good news? In many cases, the problem can be diagnosed—and even resolved—with a few simple steps.
At Phillips Air Care, our licensed HVAC professionals help homeowners get their comfort back quickly and affordably. Whether your system needs a basic repair or a full replacement, we’ll help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.
What to Check When Your AC Isn’t Cooling
Before scheduling an appointment, try these homeowner-friendly troubleshooting steps:
- Thermostat Settings: Make sure the system is set to “Cool” and the fan is set to “Auto,” not “On.” If your fan runs continuously, it may seem like the AC isn’t cooling when it’s actually just circulating air.
- Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts airflow and can cause your system to underperform or even shut down. Replace it if it’s dirty—ideally every 30 to 90 days.
- Frozen Coils: If you notice ice on the outdoor unit or refrigerant lines, shut the system off. Frozen coils can be caused by restricted airflow or low refrigerant and require professional service.
- Blocked Outdoor Unit: Debris around the condenser coils can keep heat from escaping, reducing your system’s ability to cool. Gently rinse the coils with a hose and keep at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
- Clogged Drain Line: If your AC isn’t turning on or your thermostat screen is blank, a clogged condensate drain line may have triggered a shutoff switch.
If you’ve tried these steps and your system is still not cooling properly, it’s time to call the professionals at Phillips Air Care for a detailed diagnosis.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?
This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer depends on a few key factors. Here’s how to tell what makes the most sense for your situation:
When AC Repair Makes Sense:
- Your unit is under 10 years old
- The repair is minor and affordable (e.g. a capacitor or thermostat)
- The system has been reliable with no history of major issues
- Your energy bills are still relatively low and stable
When It’s Time to Replace Your AC:
- Your unit is 12–15+ years old
- Repairs are becoming frequent or costly
- You’re facing a major repair (like a failed compressor)
- Your cooling is inconsistent or energy bills are unusually high
- Your unit still uses outdated refrigerant like R-22
If you’re on the fence, our team can inspect your system and help you determine the most cost-effective path forward. You may be surprised how much you can save long-term with a high-efficiency AC system—especially in the Wilmington climate.
Local, Reliable AC Service in Wilmington, NC
Whether you need a fast AC repair or are considering a system upgrade, Phillips Air Care has you covered. We proudly serve Wilmington and surrounding communities with honest advice, dependable repairs, and professional AC installation services.
Explore our full list of air conditioning services or schedule your appointment online today. We’re here to keep your home cool, comfortable, and energy efficient all summer long.
Need Help Now?
Call us today at (910) 620-0096 or contact us online for fast, reliable service. Let Phillips Air Care help you stay cool in Wilmington—no matter how hot it gets outside.
