If you live in Riverside,CA you already know how quickly a summer day can go from warm to “why do I feel like I’m standing in an oven?” That’s why it’s so frustrating when your AC is running but the house still feels warm.
Sometimes the fix is simple. Other times, you’ll need a professional to step in. Here are the most common reasons we see for an AC not cooling in Riverside, CA and how to figure out which one might be the culprit.
If your AC isn’t cooling and you’re in Riverside, our AC repair services can help you stay comfortable this summer.
1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter (Especially in Riverside’s Dusty Summers)
This is probably the most common issue we see, and it’s one you can check yourself in about 30 seconds. Riverside’s dry summers, plus pollen and dust, can clog filters faster than you’d expect. When the filter gets dirty, airflow slows down, and your system has to work twice as hard to push out cool air.
Quick Tip: Pull the filter out and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, it’s time for a change. For most households here, swapping it every 1–2 months in summer is a good rule of thumb.
Did you know? Filter issues are the number one AC problem in Riverside during peak heat months.
2. Thermostat Reading the Wrong Temperature
In older Riverside homes, thermostats are sometimes placed near windows or kitchens. That heat can trick your system into thinking the house is warmer than it really is, causing it to run longer without cooling properly.
What to Try: Lower your thermostat a couple of degrees and see if it responds. If you still notice problems, it might be worth upgrading to a smart thermostat that can better regulate your home’s temperature.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is what allows your AC to cool the air. If there’s a leak, you’ll often notice warm air from the vents, ice forming on the coils, or a faint hissing noise.
This isn’t something you can top off yourself; it requires an EPA-certified technician.
At Polar Express we’ve identified refrigerant leaks as one of the most frequent repair problems during Southern California’s high temperatures. Some issues like refrigerant leaks require a professional. You can schedule a repair here
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
Your outdoor unit has condenser coils that release heat from inside your home. Over time, dirt, leaves, and even pet hair can coat those coils and block the process.
In Riverside, the wind can carry dust and debris straight into those fins. You can carefully hose down the coils from the outside, but a deep cleaning is best left to a pro.
5. Failing Capacitor
The capacitor is a small but essential component that helps your AC start and keep running. In Riverside’s heat, we see a lot of these fail because of the constant demand on the system.
Symptoms: If your AC hums but doesn’t start, or starts and stops quickly, the capacitor may be the issue. This is an electrical component, so repairs should be handled by a professional.
6. Leaky or Blocked Ductwork
Uneven cooling in different rooms can point to leaky ducts. Older neighborhoods in Riverside are especially prone to this due to aging infrastructure. Rodents or pests can also damage ductwork.
Quick DIY Check: If safe to do so, peek into your attic and look for disconnected sections or insulation out of place. Duct testing can pinpoint leaks you can’t see.
7. Undersized or Oversized AC System
If your home has undergone renovations or additions and the AC system wasn’t upgraded, it might be improperly sized. An undersized unit will run constantly. An oversized unit may cool too quickly and shut off before humidity is removed.
A load calculation from a licensed technician will help determine if your system matches your home’s needs.
Local DIY Quick Test for Riverside Homeowners
- Check the filter. Can’t see through it? Replace it.
- Listen for odd noises. Hissing or buzzing? Call a tech.
- Test different rooms. If cooling is uneven, you might have a duct issue.
- Take photos. Local HVAC pros can often triage with a quick look.
When to Call in a Professional
If you’ve checked the basics and you’re still not getting cool air, it’s worth having someone take a look. Refrigerant leaks, capacitor issues, and major duct problems aren’t things you want to ignore in Riverside’s summer heat.
We’ve seen all of these problems right here in Riverside homes. The sooner you address the problem, the more likely you are to avoid a full breakdown when it’s 100° outside.
Need help fast? Polar Express offers reliable AC repair in Riverside, and right now you can get $100 off qualifying repairs. Give us a call, and we’ll get your home feeling comfortable again.
