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 Seattle, WA: 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 Seattle, WA
- Seattle Steam Co · Puget Sound Plaza, 1325 4th Ave #1440, Seattle, WA · +12066236366
- Warren Company · 500 Union St Ste 900, Seattle, WA · (206) 749-9484
- US HVAC Home Service Seattle · 300 Pine St Ste 100, Seattle, WA · (253) 793-1154
- MM Comfort Systems · 800 5th Ave 101 463, Seattle, WA · 2065429100
- Dorse and Company · 5000 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA · +12062842610
- Mighty Energy Solutions · 2910 1st Ave S Ste 201, Seattle, WA · +12068801558
- United Systems Mechanical · 1400 Airport Way S Ste 202, Seattle, WA · +12069336036
- Local Hvac Expert Seattle · 3250 Airport Way S, Seattle, WA · +12065651003
Get free quotes from Seattle, WA 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.