Why is my AC running but not cooling?
An AC that runs without cooling is most often a dirty filter choking airflow, a failed capacitor, or low refrigerant from a leak. The filter you can fix in two minutes; a frozen coil means shut it off and let it thaw before a tech comes, or the real problem can't be diagnosed.
Likely causes
- Clogged filter — Starved airflow freezes the coil and kills cooling — check this first, always.
- Failed capacitor — The outdoor fan or compressor won't start properly; a common, relatively cheap repair.
- Refrigerant leak — Ice on the refrigerant lines plus weak cooling. Refilling without fixing the leak buys weeks, not years.
- Dirty outdoor condenser — Cottonwood, grass, and debris insulate the coil so heat can't escape.
What you can check yourself
- Replace the filter. If the indoor coil is iced, turn the system off (fan on) for 3–4 hours to thaw.
- Clear debris from around the outdoor unit — 2 feet of clearance on all sides.
- Check that the thermostat is on 'cool' and below room temperature (it happens more than anyone admits).
Typical cost
Typical repairs in Austin, TX: capacitor $150–$350; refrigerant leak repair + refill $450–$1,200; fan motor $300–$600.
When to call a pro
Ice keeps returning, the breaker trips, or it blows warm after a filter change and thaw — those need a tech, and running it meanwhile can kill the compressor.
HVAC pros in Austin, TX
- 24/7 AC Repair Austin · 704 San Antonio St., Austin, TX · 7372154475
- Classic Aire Mechanical, Inc. · 1108 Lavaca St Ste 110-487, Austin, TX · +15124478300
- Tex-air Heating & Air Conditioning · 506 Congress Ave, Austin, TX · +15125637505
- Gold Eagle Services · 501 Congress Ave Ste 150, Austin, TX · 8303023864
- RedHome HVAC Services · 823 Congress Ave Ste 150, Austin, TX · 5124027277
- Quick Cooling Inc. · 500 E 4th St #323, Austin, TX · 5129192193
- Hot Rod Mechanical · 3415 E 5th St, Austin, TX · +15123868686
- Green Leaf A/C and Heating · 1405 Clifford Ave, Austin, TX · 5126404790
Get free quotes from Austin, TX pros →
Data by Servik — verified local pros from official license records and public sources. Cost figures are typical ranges, not quotes; a pro's written estimate is the real number.