There can be several reasons why your air conditioner stops blowing air and then starts again after being off for some time. Here are a few possible explanations:
Thermostat settings: It's possible that the thermostat settings are causing the intermittent airflow. Check if the thermostat is set to "auto" mode rather than "on." When set to "auto," the fan will only run when the cooling or heating system is actively running. If it's set to "on," the fan will continuously blow air, even when the cooling or heating system is not actively cooling or heating the air.
Frozen evaporator coil: If the evaporator coil inside your air conditioner becomes frozen, it can restrict airflow. This can happen due to factors such as a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or insufficient airflow. When the system is turned off, the frozen coil may have time to thaw, allowing the airflow to resume temporarily. However, the issue may recur once the system runs for a while and the coil freezes again.
Clogged air filter: A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the air conditioner to shut off the airflow intermittently. When the system is turned off, the filter may have time to partially clear, allowing the airflow to resume temporarily. However, as the system runs, the filter may become clogged again, resulting in reduced airflow.
Electrical issues: Electrical problems, such as a faulty relay or capacitor, can cause the air conditioner to intermittently stop blowing air. When the system is turned off and then back on, the electrical components may reset or temporarily function correctly, allowing the airflow to resume. However, the issue may persist when the faulty component malfunctions again.
Motor or fan issues: Problems with the blower motor or fan can cause intermittent airflow. Issues such as a faulty motor, worn-out bearings, or a loose fan belt can result in the fan not operating consistently. When the system is turned off and then back on, the fan or motor may temporarily start working again, leading to airflow resumption.
It's important to note that diagnosing and repairing air conditioning issues can be complex, and it's best to consult a qualified HVAC technician to inspect your system and identify the exact cause of the problem. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate repairs or maintenance needed to resolve the intermittent airflow issue.