Why Your AC Isn't Heating Your Home

If your ac not getting hot when you need warmth the most, here are the most common causes:

1. Incorrect thermostat settings - Check if it's set to "HEAT" mode, not "COOL" or "FAN"
2. Dirty air filters - Replace filters every 1-3 months
3. Low refrigerant levels - May require professional service
4. Electrical issues - Check circuit breakers and power connections
5. Blocked vents or ducts - Ensure vents are open and unobstructed
6. Frozen outdoor unit - May need to thaw and address underlying cause

There's nothing more frustrating than turning on your heating system during a cold snap only to find your ac not getting hot. This common problem affects many Florida homeowners, especially during those occasional winter cold fronts when temperatures drop unexpectedly.

Heat pumps and furnaces can fail to produce warm air for numerous reasons, ranging from simple fixes you can handle yourself to more complex issues requiring professional attention. Understanding the root cause is the first step to restoring comfort in your home.

Many homeowners don't realize that what they call an "AC" is actually part of a complete HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system designed to both cool and heat your home. When the heating function fails, the problem might lie in components you didn't even know existed.

I'm Allen Chenault, owner of AC's Heating & Air with over 8 years of experience diagnosing and fixing ac not getting hot issues throughout Orange County and Central Florida. I've seen how frustrating heating problems can be, especially when they occur during unexpected cold snaps.

Key terms for ac not getting hot:- carrier heater not blowing hot air- electric heater blowing cold air in house- furnace doesnt blow hot air

AC Not Getting Hot: Fast Diagnostic Checklist

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, let's start with a quick diagnostic checklist that can help you identify and potentially solve your heating problem in minutes. When your ac not getting hot, these simple checks might save you time and frustration.

First, check your air filter. It's surprising how often a clogged filter is the culprit behind heating problems. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder while delivering less heat to your home.

Next, verify your thermostat settings. I can't tell you how many service calls I've made only to find the thermostat was accidentally set to "COOL" instead of "HEAT" or the temperature was set lower than the room temperature. It happens to the best of us!

Don't forget to inspect your circuit breakers. Power issues are common causes of heating failures, and a quick reset of a tripped breaker might be all your system needs.

Take a look at your outdoor unit too. During colder weather, heat pumps can develop ice buildup that prevents proper heating. This is especially common in Florida where heat pumps are the primary heating source for most homes.

While you're investigating, check for obvious duct issues like disconnected or damaged visible ductwork, which can cause significant heat loss even when your system is running perfectly.

Finally, be aware of safety switches that might be shutting down your system. Many modern HVAC systems have protective switches that cut power when they detect potential problems.

As John D. from Winter Park told us after a recent service call: "I was convinced my heat pump was broken when it stopped heating during our last cold snap. Turns out, I just had a dirty filter and a thermostat accidentally set to 'COOL' mode. The AC's Heating & Air technician showed me how to check these things first in the future."

If these quick checks don't solve your problem, don't worry. We'll dive deeper into each potential cause below.

More info about Central Heating Troubleshooting Tips

Common Symptoms of "ac not getting hot"

When your ac not getting hot, you'll likely notice some telltale signs. Lukewarm air from vents is the most obvious symptom—instead of the warm, cozy air you expect, you feel air that's barely above room temperature.

You might also notice your system running constantly without ever reaching the temperature you've set. Your heating system works overtime but your home stays chilly, which often leads to another symptom: rising energy bills. Many homeowners are shocked when they receive utility bills that are significantly higher despite not feeling any warmer.

Temperature problems tend to worsen at night, with noticeable temperature drops during overnight hours making for uncomfortable sleeping conditions. You might also experience uneven heating throughout your home, with some rooms feeling relatively comfortable while others remain downright cold.

Another common scenario is your outdoor unit running but no heat inside. You can hear your heat pump operating, but it's not transferring heat properly to your indoor spaces.

Recognizing these symptoms can help pinpoint the specific issue affecting your system and guide you toward the right solution.

Safety First Before You Troubleshoot "ac not getting hot"

Before you roll up your sleeves to tackle any heating issue, let's talk safety. Your comfort is important, but your wellbeing is essential.

Always turn off power to your HVAC system at the breaker before inspecting internal components. Electricity and heating systems don't mix well with curious fingers! When handling filters or checking components with sharp edges, use proper safety gear like gloves to protect yourself.

It's crucial to know your limits when it comes to HVAC repairs. While changing a filter or checking a thermostat is typically safe, repairs involving electrical components, gas connections, or refrigerant require professional training. Attempting these without proper knowledge can lead to serious injury or system damage.

Be alert for warning signs that indicate potential danger. If you smell gas or burning odors, exit your home immediately and call for professional help. This isn't the time for DIY heroics.

When working with heating systems, keeping fire extinguishers handy is always a wise precaution. Even routine maintenance can occasionally reveal unexpected issues.

While some heating problems have straightforward DIY solutions, others require professional expertise. When in doubt, it's better to call a qualified HVAC technician than to risk your safety or cause further damage to your system. After all, that's why we're here!

1. Thermostat Trouble & Control Glitches

When your ac not getting hot, the culprit might be sitting right on your wall. Your thermostat serves as the brain of your entire HVAC system, and even small issues with this command center can leave you shivering under blankets wondering what went wrong.

I can't tell you how many emergency service calls we've responded to where the fix was as simple as flipping a switch on the thermostat from "COOL" to "HEAT." It happens to the best of us! Your thermostat might be experiencing one of several common issues that prevent proper heating.

Those dead batteries in your digital thermostat? They can silently drain over months, eventually causing your system to malfunction when you need heat the most. And don't get me started on miscalibration issues – thermostats gradually drift from accuracy over the years, sometimes reading temperatures several degrees off from reality.

Wiring problems also frequently plague thermostats – those tiny, delicate connections can work loose over time or develop corrosion that interrupts the vital communication between your thermostat and heating system. And if you've upgraded to a smart thermostat, those convenient high-tech features sometimes come with frustrating software glitches after updates.

Sarah from Orlando shared a story that might sound familiar: "I was convinced we needed a new furnace when our house wouldn't warm up. The AC's Heating & Air technician showed me that our thermostat was actually set to 'COOL' mode instead of 'HEAT.' I felt silly, but was so relieved the fix was that simple!"

You're not alone, Sarah! This happens more often than you might think.

According to research from the U.S. Department of Energy, properly using a programmable thermostat can trim up to 10% off your annual heating and cooling costs. But those savings only materialize when your thermostat is correctly programmed and working as intended.

Scientific research on programmable thermostats

How to Re-Set When Your "ac not getting hot"

If your Florida home feels more like a walk-in cooler despite your heating system running, a thermostat reset might be the simple fix you need. Start by turning your thermostat completely OFF for about five minutes – this gives the system time to reset its internal circuitry.

Next, switch it definitively to "HEAT" mode. I recommend setting the temperature at least 5 degrees higher than your current room temperature to ensure the system kicks on. While you're at it, pop in fresh batteries if your model uses them. This simple step solves a surprising number of thermostat woes.

Check that the display is functioning properly and showing accurate information. If you have a programmable model, try bypassing any scheduled programs by using the manual override function – this helps determine if the issue lies with your programming or the thermostat itself.

For those of you with smart thermostats, a few additional checks might be necessary. Verify your Wi-Fi connection is stable, make sure your thermostat app is updated to the latest version, and restart the device according to the manufacturer's instructions. Also worth checking: those energy-saving modes might be working a bit too well, preventing your system from heating properly.

When to Replace the Thermostat

Sometimes, your thermostat troubles run deeper than a simple reset can fix. If your thermostat has celebrated its 10th birthday, it's likely approaching retirement age. Older models become increasingly unreliable and lack the energy-efficient features of modern options.

Does your thermostat consistently tell you it's 75° when you're clearly seeing your breath? Persistent temperature inaccuracies suggest calibration problems that often can't be corrected. Similarly, a dim or flickering display usually signals electrical issues that aren't worth repairing.

When the programming features that once made your life easier no longer function, or if your energy bills seem unusually high despite conservative temperature settings, your thermostat might be the hidden energy vampire.

Modern smart thermostats offer impressive upgrades worth considering – they can learn your schedule, allow precise temperature control from your smartphone, and even alert you when maintenance issues arise. Many new homeowners are surprised to find how much comfort and efficiency they gain from this relatively simple upgrade.

While thermostat issues are often DIY-friendly, don't hesitate to call us at AC's Heating & Air if you're unsure about anything. Sometimes what seems like a thermostat problem might be a symptom of a larger system issue, and we're always here to help sort it out.

2. Dirty Air Filters & Blocked Airflow

You might not believe something as simple as a dirty air filter could be why your ac not getting hot, but it's actually one of the most common culprits I see in homes across Central Florida. This small, inexpensive component plays a crucial role in your heating system's performance, yet it's so often overlooked.

When dust, pet hair, and all the other stuff floating around your home builds up on your filter, it's like trying to breathe through a thick blanket. Your heating system struggles the same way. With restricted airflow, several problems start to cascade:

Your heat pump's coils can actually freeze over when there's not enough air flowing across them. Ironically, this leaves you shivering while your system is literally covered in ice. Your system might also overheat as it works overtime, triggering those annoying safety shutoffs just when you need heat the most. All this extra strain not only reduces efficiency but can shorten your equipment's lifespan significantly.

According to most HVAC professionals (myself included), you should change your air filter every 30-90 days. The exact timing depends on your specific situation – pet owners might need monthly changes, while a vacation home might go longer between replacements. What's interesting is that studies show a clogged filter can slash your system's efficiency by 5-15%. Simply replacing that dirty filter can lower your energy consumption by up to 15% – that's money staying in your pocket!

More info about Heater Not Working? Common Causes and Solutions

Signs Your Filter Is the Culprit

How can you tell if your filter is behind your ac not getting hot problem? There are some pretty clear giveaways. First, take a look at your filter – if you can't see light through it when holding it up, it's definitely time for a change.

Listen carefully near your vents or air handler. Hear that whistling or high-pitched noise? That's your system desperately trying to pull air through a clogged filter. You might also notice weak airflow from your vents – barely enough to flutter a piece of tissue.

I was at Mike's home in Winter Garden last month, and he was completely baffled by his new heat pump's poor performance. "I couldn't figure out why our new heat pump wasn't heating properly," he told me later, "until the AC's Heating & Air technician showed me our filter. It was so clogged with dog hair you couldn't see through it! After replacing it, our heat worked perfectly."

Other telltale signs include your system running much longer than usual to reach your set temperature, or that frustrating situation where some rooms are toasty while others remain cold zones due to inadequate airflow.

Quick DIY Fix

The good news is that replacing an air filter is probably the easiest and most cost-effective fix you can do yourself. Here's my simple process:

Always turn off your system before you start. Safety first! Then locate your filter – it's typically either in the return air duct (that big grate on your wall or ceiling) or inside the air handler unit itself. Check the dimensions printed on the filter frame – something like 16x20x1 – and be sure to match this exactly when purchasing a replacement.

When installing the new filter, pay close attention to those airflow direction arrows printed on the frame. They need to point toward your system, not away from it. I've seen many well-intentioned homeowners install filters backward, which only compounds the problem.

Here's a pro tip I share with my customers: buy filters in bulk to save money and keep spares on hand. For Florida homes with pets or allergy sufferers, I recommend monthly changes during peak heating season. And set a reminder in your phone – filter maintenance is easy to forget until you're shivering in a cold house wondering why your ac not getting hot.

Taking this simple step regularly can prevent many heating emergencies and keep your system running efficiently for years to come. It's the kind of small maintenance task that pays big dividends in comfort and savings.

3. Low Refrigerant & Heat-Pump Hiccups

Is your ac not getting hot even though it's running? If you're like most Florida homeowners, you probably have a heat pump system rather than a traditional furnace. Unlike furnaces that create heat by burning fuel, heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outside air into your home—yes, even when it's chilly outside!

When a heat pump isn't warming your home properly, refrigerant issues are often the culprit. Think of refrigerant as the lifeblood of your system—without the right amount, your heat pump simply can't do its job.

I recently visited a home in Apopka where the family was bundled up in blankets because their heat pump wasn't producing warmth. After a quick inspection, I finded a small refrigerant leak that had developed over several months. Once we repaired the leak and recharged the system, their home was toasty again within hours.

Common refrigerant-related problems include refrigerant leaks through tiny holes or cracks in copper lines, ice formation on the outdoor unit (a telltale sign of refrigerant issues), reversing valve failure (the component that switches between heating and cooling modes), and auxiliary heat strip malfunctions (the backup heating system that kicks in during very cold weather).

Most heat pumps work efficiently until outdoor temperatures drop to about 35-45°F. Below that, they rely more heavily on those auxiliary electric heat strips for supplemental warmth. If these strips aren't functioning properly, you'll definitely feel the chill during those occasional Florida cold snaps.

Heat Pump vs. Air Conditioner: What's the Difference?

How Refrigerant Affects Heat Output

The relationship between refrigerant and heat is fascinating—and understanding it helps explain why proper refrigerant levels are so crucial for keeping you warm.

In heating mode, your system's refrigerant absorbs heat energy from the outside air (surprising, but even cold air contains heat energy!). This refrigerant then gets compressed, which significantly raises its temperature. The now-hot refrigerant travels to your indoor coil, where it releases that captured heat into your home. Finally, it expands, cools down, and returns outside to collect more heat—completing the cycle.

When refrigerant levels drop due to leaks, this whole process becomes much less efficient. Your system absorbs less heat from outside, delivers less warmth inside, and runs longer while producing minimal comfort. You might notice your heat pump running constantly but barely warming your home. In severe cases, your coils might even freeze due to the pressure imbalances caused by low refrigerant.

As Maria from Winter Park told me after we fixed her heat pump: "I couldn't believe the difference. My system had been running non-stop for weeks without making my home comfortable. After your technician fixed the refrigerant leak, I actually had to turn the thermostat down because it was working so well!"

Professional Leak Repair vs. Recharge

If refrigerant issues are behind your ac not getting hot problem, there's something important you should know: this isn't a DIY fix. By federal law, only EPA 608-certified technicians can handle refrigerant—and for good reason, as it requires specialized training and equipment.

Simply adding more refrigerant isn't a proper solution if there's a leak. It's like filling a leaky bucket—the refrigerant will just escape again, wasting your money and potentially harming the environment. The right approach is to find and repair the leak first, then recharge the system to the manufacturer's specifications.

Professional technicians use sophisticated tools like electronic leak detectors, ultraviolet dyes, and pressure tests to pinpoint even tiny leaks that might be invisible to the naked eye.

When deciding whether to repair or replace a system with refrigerant leaks, consider the system's age (systems over 10 years old might be better candidates for replacement), the complexity of the repair (some leaks are simple fixes while others require major component replacement), and potential efficiency improvements (newer systems can slash your energy bills compared to older models).

One Winter Garden customer faced this decision recently when we found multiple refrigerant leaks in her 12-year-old system. After comparing repair costs with replacement benefits, she opted for a new high-efficiency heat pump that not only solved her heating problems but also reduced her monthly utility bills by nearly 30%.

Adding refrigerant to a leaking system is not only throwing money away—it's also environmentally irresponsible, as refrigerant leaks contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. At AC's Heating & Air, we always prioritize finding and fixing the root cause rather than applying temporary band-aid solutions.

4. Electrical Issues, Breakers & Safety Switches

When your ac not getting hot, don't overlook the electrical system. It's amazing how often a simple electrical issue is the culprit behind your heating woes. I've seen countless Florida homeowners shivering in their homes, convinced they need an expensive repair, when the fix was as simple as resetting a breaker!

Your heating system relies on a complex network of electrical components working in harmony. When one part of this electrical symphony goes out of tune, your whole system can stop producing heat.

The most common electrical issues I encounter include tripped circuit breakers that cut power to your system after a surge, blown fuses in older systems, activated float switches that shut things down if water is detected, malfunctioning control boards (the electronic brain of your system), failing capacitors that can't provide the electrical charge needed to start motors, and worn contactors that no longer properly control power flow.

Electrical safety experts warn that repeatedly tripping breakers are like your home sending you urgent text messages. They're warning signs of underlying problems that need attention before they escalate into fire hazards or cause permanent damage to your expensive heating equipment.

Scientific research on electrical safety

DIY Power Checks

Before calling in the pros, there are several safe electrical checks you can perform yourself when your ac not getting hot:

First, head to your circuit breaker panel and look for any breakers in the "off" position or awkwardly sitting between on and off. If you find a tripped breaker, reset it by flipping it fully off (you'll feel a definite click), then back to the on position.

Next, locate the disconnect box near your outdoor unit. This safety switch should be in the "on" position—sometimes strong winds or curious kids can flip these off without you knowing.

While you're investigating, examine any visible wiring for damage. In Florida, we see plenty of rodent damage to HVAC wiring, especially in older homes. Also check if indicator lights on your thermostat and equipment are lit up, confirming they're receiving power.

One of our Celebration customers, James, called us in a panic during last year's first cold snap when his heat pump wouldn't turn on. Over the phone, we guided him to check his breaker panel, where he found one tripped breaker. After resetting it, his heat kicked on immediately. He was thrilled to save the service call fee!

Call a Pro If You Notice

While I'm all for DIY fixes, some electrical issues require professional expertise. Your safety should always come first. Contact us immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:

Sparks or arcing from any component of your system is a serious fire hazard requiring immediate attention. Similarly, burning smells have no place in a properly functioning HVAC system—that distinctive acrid odor means something is overheating.

If your breakers trip repeatedly after resetting, don't keep flipping them back on. This pattern indicates a serious underlying issue that needs professional diagnosis. The same goes for melted or discolored wiring, which is evidence of dangerous overheating.

Pay attention to unusual noises when your system starts up. Buzzing or humming often signals electrical problems with motors or capacitors. And if you notice partial operation—perhaps the fan runs but there's no heat—specific components may be failing due to electrical issues.

Water and electricity create a dangerous combination. Many Florida HVAC systems have both drainage components and electrical parts in close proximity, increasing risk. When in doubt, stay safe and call the professionals at AC's Heating & Air instead of attempting electrical repairs yourself.

5. Blocked Vents, Duct Leaks & Insulation Gaps

When your ac not getting hot, the problem might not be with your heating equipment at all. Often, the culprit is hiding in your home's ductwork system - the invisible network that carries warm air to every room. This is particularly common in Florida homes, where attic ductwork gets exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year.

I've seen countless homes where perfectly good heating systems struggle simply because the warm air never reaches the living spaces. Imagine paying to heat air that's warming up your attic instead of your bedroom!

One homeowner in Winter Garden, Maria, called us in desperation about her freezing master bedroom. "We couldn't figure out why our master bedroom was always cold while the rest of the house was warm," she told us. When I inspected her attic, I found a completely disconnected duct that was dumping all the heated air into the attic space instead of her bedroom. One simple repair later, and her bedroom was finally cozy.

Your home's comfort system might be fighting against several common airflow obstacles. Closed or blocked registers behind furniture or drapes can restrict airflow to entire rooms. Crushed or kinked flexible ducts often happen when someone steps in the wrong place during other attic work. Disconnected duct sections develop as joints separate over time, while rodent damage is surprisingly common - mice and rats love to chew through the soft material of flexible ducts. Even inadequate attic insulation can allow precious heat to escape through your ceiling before it ever reaches your living spaces.

According to Energy Star research, leaky ducts can rob your HVAC system of up to 20% of its efficiency. In fact, the average home loses 20-40% of heated or cooled air through duct leaks before it ever reaches the rooms you're trying to heat. That's like driving with your windows partially open while the heater is running!

More info about Heat Not Blowing Out of Vents in House

How to Spot Hidden Duct Leaks

Finding duct leaks can be tricky since most of your ductwork lives hidden in walls, ceilings, or attics. However, your home will give you clues if you know what to look for.

Pay attention to rooms that never get comfortable despite your heating system running constantly. These persistent cold spots often indicate the warm air isn't reaching that area. Excessive dust in your home might mean leaky return ducts are pulling in dust from attics or wall cavities. If you're facing unusually high utility bills, you might be paying to heat air that's escaping into unconditioned spaces.

For a hands-on inspection, check any visible ductwork in accessible areas like attics or basements for obvious separations. Listen for whistling sounds when your system runs - that distinctive noise often comes from air escaping through leaks. You can also perform a simple touch test by feeling around duct connections for air movement when your system is running.

More thorough detection methods include using smoke pencils (which release visible smoke that gets drawn toward leaks) or having a professional perform a pressure test to measure your system's overall leakage rate. Many of our customers are shocked when they see exactly where their heating dollars are escaping.

Sealing & Insulating for Better Heat

Improving your ductwork doesn't have to be complicated, and the benefits are immediate. Proper sealing and insulating can dramatically improve heating performance while reducing your energy bills.

First, seal any duct leaks properly. Despite its name, regular duct tape isn't actually good for ducts - it deteriorates quickly in hot attics. Instead, use mastic sealant (a specialized paste) or metal-backed tape specifically designed for HVAC applications. For ducts in unconditioned spaces like attics or garages, add proper insulation to prevent heat loss during transfer.

Don't forget to check that all your registers fit tightly against floors, walls, and ceilings. Even small gaps around these vents can leak surprising amounts of air. You can also balance your airflow by partially closing registers in rooms that tend to overheat, which redirects more warm air to colder areas of your home.

The attic itself deserves attention too. Proper attic insulation (R-30 to R-60 depending on your Florida climate zone) creates a thermal boundary that helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home.

The energy savings from these improvements can be substantial. According to Department of Energy research, properly sealing and insulating ducts can boost your heating system's efficiency by as much as 20%. One of our Apopka customers shared their experience: "After sealing our ductwork and adding proper insulation in our attic, not only did our heating problems disappear, but our energy bills dropped by almost 30% during winter months!"

When your ac not getting hot, sometimes the simplest fixes make the biggest difference. Proper airflow is essential for any heating system to work efficiently, and addressing these common duct issues can transform your home's comfort while saving you money every month.

6. Wrong-Sized or Aging Equipment & Mechanical Failures

Sometimes when your ac not getting hot, the culprit isn't a quick fix but rather fundamental issues with your heating equipment itself. I've seen countless Florida homes where the heating system was fighting a losing battle from the start due to improper sizing, age-related wear, or mechanical breakdowns.

Your heating system might be struggling because it's simply not right for your home. An undersized system will run constantly but never quite warm your space adequately - like trying to heat your entire house with a hair dryer. On the flip side, an oversized system creates its own problems by short-cycling (turning on and off frequently), causing uncomfortable temperature swings while wearing out components prematurely.

The heart of any heat pump system is the compressor, and like any hardworking mechanical component, it loses efficiency over time. Similarly, a failing blower motor might prevent warm air from circulating properly throughout your home, leaving you shivering despite your system running full blast.

Age is another critical factor. Most heating systems have a lifespan of about 15-20 years before major components begin failing more frequently. Industry data paints a concerning picture - over 50% of HVAC systems in American homes operate inefficiently due to improper installation or sizing issues. Even more alarming, studies suggest up to 90% of HVAC systems are installed incorrectly, directly impacting their heating capability.

Even with perfect maintenance, efficiency naturally declines as systems age. A 15-year-old heat pump typically operates at 25-40% lower efficiency than when it was new. This translates directly to both reduced heating capacity and higher energy bills - a double whammy for comfort and your wallet.

More info about Heat Pump Replacement Orlando FL

Telltale Signs It's Time to Upgrade

How can you tell if your heating system needs replacement rather than another repair? I've helped hundreds of Central Florida homeowners make this important decision, and certain patterns clearly emerge.

Frequent repairs are perhaps the most obvious red flag. If your technician is becoming a regular visitor to your home, your system is telling you something. One Apopka homeowner told me, "I finally realized I was on a first-name basis with three different HVAC technicians - that's when I knew it was time for a new system!"

Watch your energy bills closely. If they're steadily climbing despite consistent usage patterns, your system is likely working harder while producing less heat. Similarly, uneven comfort throughout your home - where some rooms feel like the tropics while others remain chilly - often indicates a system that can no longer distribute heat effectively.

Strange noises should never be ignored. Grinding, scraping, or banging sounds aren't just annoying - they're your system's way of signaling distress. When your heat pump starts sounding more like a percussion section than a heating system, it's time to consider replacement.

System age remains one of the most reliable indicators. Generally, consider replacement when your heat pump exceeds 10-15 years, your furnace is beyond 15-20 years, or your packaged unit has surpassed 15 years of service.

Finally, consider the repair-to-replacement cost ratio. When a repair would cost more than one-third of a new system's price, replacement typically makes better economic sense. As I often tell my customers, putting $1,500 into a 16-year-old system is like investing in extensive repairs for a car with 250,000 miles - rarely the wisest financial decision.

Tom from Orlando shared his experience with me recently: "Our 17-year-old heat pump was barely keeping our home comfortable despite running constantly. After getting a properly sized replacement from AC's Heating & Air, our home stays perfectly warm during cold snaps, and our electric bill dropped dramatically. I wish we'd upgraded years earlier!"

Protect Your Investment With Maintenance

Whether you've just installed a brand-new system or are trying to extend the life of your existing equipment, proper maintenance is absolutely crucial for optimal performance.

Bi-annual professional tune-ups provide tremendous value. Having your system professionally serviced in spring and fall ensures it's ready for both heating and cooling seasons. During these visits, technicians can spot small issues before they become expensive emergencies - often saving you hundreds or even thousands in potential repair costs.

Regular filter changes remain the single most important maintenance task homeowners can perform themselves. This simple 5-minute task prevents numerous problems, from restricted airflow to frozen coils and system shutdowns. I recommend setting a recurring reminder on your phone - your system will thank you with better performance and lower energy bills.

Keep your outdoor unit clear of debris, fallen leaves, and encroaching vegetation. Your heat pump needs proper airflow to transfer heat effectively, and even partial blockage can significantly reduce its efficiency. Maintain at least two feet of clearance around all sides of the unit for optimal performance.

Develop the habit of monitoring performance throughout the season. Pay attention to changes in heating effectiveness, unusual noises, or unexpected increases in energy consumption. These early warning signs often provide valuable time to address issues before complete system failure occurs.

Perhaps most importantly, address minor issues promptly. Small problems rarely resolve themselves and typically worsen over time. That minor refrigerant leak or unusual noise might seem tolerable now, but left unaddressed, it could lead to compressor failure or other major component breakdowns.

Many of our customers find tremendous value in maintenance agreements with AC's Heating & Air. These plans provide priority service, discounted repairs, and regular reminders for maintenance tasks. As one Winter Garden customer told me, "The peace of mind alone is worth it - knowing my system is being properly maintained and I'll get priority service if something does go wrong."

A well-maintained heating system not only provides reliable comfort during those occasional Florida cold snaps but also operates more efficiently, lasts longer, and costs less to operate over its lifetime - truly a win-win investment for your home and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions about AC Not Heating

Why is my gas furnace blowing cold air?

It's quite frustrating when you're expecting warm, cozy air and instead get a blast of cold. If your gas furnace is giving you the cold shoulder, there's usually a straightforward explanation.

Most commonly, your pilot light might have gone out. Older furnaces with standing pilots sometimes need relighting – you can usually find instructions right on your furnace door. A dirty flame sensor is another frequent culprit. This little safety device shuts down your burners if it can't detect a flame, and it gets covered with carbon buildup over time.

Sometimes the issue is as simple as your gas valve not being fully open, or dirty burners that can't ignite properly. Your furnace might also be short cycling – shutting down before it has a chance to fully heat the air passing through it. Or your blower might be starting up before your heat exchanger has gotten warm enough.

As David from Winter Park told us after a recent service call: "Our furnace was running but blowing cold air. The AC's Heating & Air technician found that our flame sensor was covered in carbon buildup. After a quick cleaning, our heat was back to normal within minutes!"

One important note: if you ever smell gas, don't attempt any DIY fixes. Leave your home immediately and call a professional.

Should I reset my HVAC system, and how?

When your ac not getting hot, sometimes a simple reset is all it needs – like rebooting a computer when it's acting up. Resetting your HVAC system clears minor electronic glitches and can often get things running smoothly again.

Here's the proper way to reset your system safely:

First, turn your thermostat to the OFF position. This signals your system to shut down properly. Next, locate the circuit breaker for your HVAC system and switch it OFF. Give it about 5 minutes – this waiting period is important as it allows capacitors to discharge and electronic components to fully reset.

After waiting, restore power by flipping the circuit breaker back on. Finally, set your thermostat back to HEAT mode and select your desired temperature.

This simple reset procedure often resolves control board glitches, minor communication errors, stuck relay problems, and temporary sensor malfunctions. However, if your heating issues return after resetting, you're likely dealing with a more serious problem that needs professional attention. I should mention that repeatedly resetting a malfunctioning system can potentially damage sensitive electronic components, so don't make it a habit.

Are there quick DIY fixes before calling a pro?

Before you pick up the phone for professional help with your ac not getting hot situation, there are several simple checks that might save you a service call.

Start with the basics: replace your air filter, as a clogged filter is one of the most common causes of heating problems. Next, check your thermostat – make sure it's set to HEAT mode (not COOL or FAN), has fresh batteries, and is set to a temperature higher than your current room temperature.

Take a walk around your home and clear all vents and returns. That beautiful sofa might look perfect against that wall, but if it's blocking your register, you'll never get proper airflow. While you're at it, try resetting your system using the procedure I mentioned earlier.

Head outside and inspect your outdoor unit if you have a heat pump. Remove any leaves, debris, or ice buildup that might be restricting its operation. Back inside, check your circuit breakers to see if any have tripped, and for gas furnaces, verify that the gas supply valve is open.

If you can access any of your ductwork, look for obvious damage or disconnections that might be leaking your heated air where you don't need it.

Lisa from Celebration shared her experience: "I was about to call for emergency service when my heat stopped working during a cold night. Following the troubleshooting tips from AC's Heating & Air's website, I found my circuit breaker had tripped. After resetting it, our heat came back on immediately!"

While these DIY checks can resolve many common issues, some problems require professional expertise. If you're uncomfortable performing any of these checks or if they don't fix the problem, it's time to call a qualified HVAC technician like those at AC's Heating & Air. Sometimes the smartest DIY move is knowing when to call for backup!

Conclusion

When your ac not getting hot during a Florida cold snap, the discomfort can quickly turn from annoying to downright miserable. After all, while our state is famous for sunshine, those occasional winter cold fronts can catch many of us unprepared. The good news? As we've explored throughout this guide, most heating problems have solutions within reach.

From something as simple as changing a forgotten filter to addressing more complex issues like refrigerant leaks, understanding what's happening with your system is the first step toward restoring warmth to your home. Many homeowners are surprised to find they can solve some heating issues themselves with just a bit of knowledge and careful attention.

Even when professional help is needed, being able to describe your system's symptoms accurately helps technicians pinpoint problems faster. This means less diagnostic time, potentially lower repair costs, and most importantly—getting your home comfortable again sooner.

I've seen countless situations where homeowners faced with repair bills wondered if replacement might be the better option. With the information we've covered about system age, efficiency decline, and repair cost thresholds, you're now equipped to make that decision with confidence rather than confusion.

Perhaps most valuable is knowing how to prevent future heating failures. Simple habits like regular filter changes, keeping vents unobstructed, and scheduling professional maintenance can dramatically reduce the likelihood of waking up to a cold house during the next winter cold snap.

At AC's Heating & Air, we've helped thousands of Central Florida families restore comfort to their homes during unexpected cold weather. Our experienced technicians proudly serve communities throughout Orange County, including Apopka, Winter Park, Orlando, and Winter Garden, with prompt, reliable heating solutions when you need them most.

We believe strongly that prevention beats emergency repairs every time. That's why we offer customized HVAC maintenance plans designed to keep your system running efficiently year-round. These affordable plans often pay for themselves through avoided emergency service calls and extended equipment life.

Don't let a heating system failure leave you shivering. Whether you've solved your ac not getting hot issue with our DIY tips or need professional assistance, we're here to help ensure your Florida home stays comfortable no matter what weather surprises come our way.

More info about furnace repair services