AC running but not cooling? Observe before you reset.

Immediate safety

Turn the system off when operation appears unsafe.

If equipment is smoking, sparking, producing a strong burning odor, repeatedly tripping a breaker, or creating water near electrical equipment, turn it off when safe and contact the appropriate emergency, utility, or service provider. Do not open energized panels.

Safe checks

Look at the system as an indoor and outdoor pair.

If there is no immediate hazard, note the indoor temperature, thermostat setting, outdoor conditions, and how long the system has been running. Avoid repeated resets before recording the behavior.

• Confirm the thermostat is in cooling mode and set below room temperature
• Check whether the thermostat display is normal
• Inspect the filter for heavy loading or incorrect installation
• Confirm whether air is moving from the registers
• Observe from a safe distance whether the outdoor unit is running
• Look for visible ice on accessible refrigerant lines or the indoor cabinet
• Look for water near the indoor equipment or a backed-up drain
• Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips again

Protect the equipment

Ice and repeated electrical trips need more than another reset.

An iced indoor coil can result from low airflow or a refrigeration problem. Continuing to cool can build more ice and may contribute to water damage when it thaws. A breaker that trips repeatedly may indicate an electrical or equipment fault. Record the condition and request service rather than forcing continued operation.