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 Washington, DC: 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 Washington, DC
- Ubuntu Air Duct Cleaning & Service · 1101 14th St NW Ste 210, Washington, DC · +12407905501
- Nhr Ac & Heat A Ductless Mini Split Boutique · 1300 I St NW, Washington, DC · +12026702779
- Cooling Tower · 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC · +18448884468
- A1a Complete Ac Services · 1432 U St NW, Washington, DC · +12026524506
- AC Repair · 2015 14th St NW, Washington, DC · 2029858885
- Riley Heat And Air · 906 I St NW, Washington, DC · 12028880737
- DC HVAC · 1126 11th St NW #203, Washington, DC · 2028043697
- Fresh Air Duct Services · 1310 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC · +18772516344
Get free quotes from Washington, DC 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.