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Central air conditioner not blowing enough

If your central air conditioner is not blowing enough air, start with the most likely causes: a dirty evaporator coil, clogged air filter, or restricted blower wheel. These problems create weak airflow from AC vents and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. Next, check whether the furnace blower motor runs properly and whether the blower wheel turns freely. A seized or failing blower motor may need replacement. Confirm that every air register is fully open, since closed louvers can make an AC unit seem like it has low airflow. If the filter, evaporator coil, and ductwork are clear, the blower motor may be wired to the wrong speed, or the blower wheel and housing may be packed with dust and debris. Turn off power before cleaning or inspecting components. Testing or replacing a blower motor involves electrical hazards, and 240V line-voltage work should be handled by a qualified technician. A technician may also be needed to verify blower speed and overall airflow. Enter your central air conditioner's model number to find the exact replacement air filter, blower motor, blower wheel, or other part for your specific system.

01 - Dirty Evaporator Coil

Proper air flow is critical for the central air conditioner to work properly. The evaporator needs sufficient air flow to keep the condensing water from freezing. If the evaporator coil, air filter or blower wheel gets clogged, air flow will be reduced causing ice to start forming on the evaporator coils, eventually freezing them up. It is recommended to replace the air filter at least every 6 months or sooner depending on the conditions. Refer to owner's manual for air filter replacement frequency recommendations and for evaporator coil cleaning instructions.
Highly Likely

02 - Central Air Conditioner Blower Motor

Since the furnace's blower motor is the component that circulates the cooled air through the home's venting, a defective blower motor will result in the central air conditioner not blowing enough. You can use a multimeter to test the blower motor for electrical continuity, a continuous electrical path present in the motor, as well as determine if power is reaching the motor. You can also try turning the blower wheel by hand. If the wheel does not turn freely, it's likely the motor bearings have seized and the blower motor will need to be replaced.
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Highly Likely

03 - Register is Closed or Only Partially Opened

Some air registers have adjustable louvers that allow the air flow to be restricted or shut off entirely. This would be used to cut off the air flow to a room that isn't being used, or to restrict air flow to one room so more air will flow to the other rooms. If there is low air flow, check that the louvers are fully open.
Highly Likely

04 - Blower Motor Improperly Wired

Most central air conditioner blower motors have multiple speeds. Central air conditioners require higher speeds to move sufficent air throughout the home for cooling. If the blower was wired incorrectly it may not be moving enough air to properly cool the home. If the air filter and evaporator coil are clear and the air ducts are sealed properly but there is still not enough air flow, the blower may be wired incorrectly. Proper air flow is determined by several factors: the design of the duct work, the size of the home, and the size of the unit. A service technician may be required to determine if the air flow is sufficient for the home.
Highly Likely

05 - Central Air Conditioner Blower Wheel and Housing

Over time the blower wheel and housing can become clogged with dust and debris. This will restrict the air flow, preventing the central air system from blowing enough. You can try cleaning the blower wheel with compressed air or with a soft bristle brush. Use caution when trying to clean the blower wheel as the fins are sharp and can be easily damaged. If the blower is damaged it will need to be replaced.
Common

06 - Clogged Blower Wheel

Over time the blower wheel can become clogged with dust and debris. This will greatly affect the air flow circulating throughout the home. You can try cleaning the blower wheel with compressed air or with a soft bristle brush. Be sure to shut off power to the unit before attempting to clean the blower wheel. Use caution when trying to clean the blower wheel as the fins are sharp and can be easily damaged. If the blower is damaged it will need to be replaced.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my central air conditioner not blowing enough air?
Can a dirty blower wheel or evaporator coil cause weak airflow from AC vents?
How do I test the central AC blower motor when the AC is not blowing hard?
Why does my central air conditioner have low airflow in only some rooms?
How do I find the correct blower motor or blower wheel replacement part for my AC?