If your outdoor AC unit is blowing cooler air outside while blowing fan-temperature air inside on the cool setting, it is likely an indication of a problem with your air conditioning system. There are several potential reasons for this issue:
Refrigerant Leak: One of the most common reasons for reduced cooling performance is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs and releases heat to cool the air. If there's a leak in the system, the AC won't be able to cool the air properly, resulting in warmer air inside your home.
Airflow Issues: Insufficient airflow across the indoor evaporator coils can lead to reduced cooling efficiency. This can be caused by a clogged air filter, blocked vents, or even a malfunctioning blower fan.
Thermostat Setting: Double-check that your thermostat is set to "cool" mode and the temperature is set to a level lower than the current room temperature. Sometimes, incorrect thermostat settings can cause the AC to blow air at room temperature.
Dirty or Frozen Evaporator Coils: Dirt and debris on the indoor evaporator coils can hamper their ability to absorb heat from the indoor air effectively. In some cases, the coils might even freeze over, further reducing cooling capacity.
Faulty Compressor: The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant, and if it's not functioning correctly, the AC won't be able to cool the air efficiently.
Ductwork Issues: Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can cause cooled air to escape before it reaches the living spaces, leading to uneven cooling and warmer indoor temperatures.
AC Size Mismatch: If the AC unit is too small for the size of your home, it may struggle to cool the entire space effectively.
To resolve the issue, it's best to contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and diagnose the problem. They can identify the root cause and perform the necessary repairs to restore proper cooling performance. Regular maintenance of your AC system can also help prevent such problems and keep it running efficiently.