Why Is Your AC Not Working in Bloomington, CA?

Southern California’s summer weather quickly becomes uncomfortable when your AC is not working. Homeowners often don’t know why an AC is not cooling properly or won’t turn on at all.
Inland Empire Comfort is the leading provider of expert air conditioning repair in Bloomington, CA, and we'd like to share some of the more common reasons cooling systems malfunction.
1. Thermostat Issues
The thermostat is the single control device that signals your air conditioner when to turn on and off. If it malfunctions, your air conditioner won’t operate correctly. Typical thermostat issues include:
- Incorrect settings: Ensure you set it to "cool" at a temperature lower than the room temperature.
- Dead batteries: Check and replace thermostat batteries as needed.
- Faulty sensors: If the thermostat misreads temperatures, your system won't deliver consistent cooling.
- Wiring problems: Loose or damaged wiring will interrupt HVAC system function.
2. Dirty Air Filter
Every air conditioner depends on unrestricted airflow to work properly. If your system's filter becomes too dirty or clogged, several problems can develop:
- Reduced airflow that impairs efficiency
- Overheating that can trigger premature shutdowns
- Poor indoor air quality that aggravates allergies and respiratory problems
- A frozen evaporator coil that leads to cooling failures
Check your system's filter every 30 days and replace it when needed, but at least every 90 days.
3. Refrigerant Leak
Air conditioners use pressurized chemical refrigerant to absorb heat from your indoor space. Even pinhole leaks can rapidly deplete refrigerant levels, causing:
- Insufficient cooling as the system struggles to reach the set temperature
- Hissing noises from small leaks
- Ice or frost buildup on coils that further impairs cooling power
Refrigerants are hazardous chemicals, so call on your HVAC professional for assistance.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coil
As described above, a frozen evaporator coil prevents proper cooling. Ice and frost accumulation results from several malfunctions, including:
- Clogged air filters restricting airflow
- Low refrigerant and insufficient pressure causing coils to ice over
- Blocked vents that prevent adequate air circulation
If you see ice on your unit, turn it off and let the coils thaw before restarting. If it freezes again, call your expert technician to assess the problem.
5. Blocked Condenser Unit
Your air conditioner's condenser is inside the outdoor unit. It releases heat and moisture absorbed from indoors to outside air. It won't work correctly if it becomes obstructed by vegetation, dirt, leaves, or debris.
Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the outdoor unit all year and gently rinse it off with your garden hose from time to time.
6. Electrical Problems
Several essential electrical components can cause your unit to fail if they malfunction:
- Worn-out capacitors cannot effectively start the compressor and fan motors.
- Damaged contactors interrupt power flow to key components.
- Loose wiring can cause erratic operation or system shutdown.
- Tripped circuit breakers result from electrical overloads.
Contact your HVAC professional for help with hazardous electrical issues.

Choose Inland Empire Comfort for AC Troubleshooting and Repair in Bloomington, California
Inland Empire Comfort provides expert air conditioning repair in Bloomington and the surrounding areas. Count on us for:
- 24/7 emergency service: We’re available whenever you need us.
- Thorough inspections: We use advanced technology and tools to diagnose and resolve issues quickly.
- Preventative maintenance plans: Keep your HVAC system running at peak performance every season.
Read our other posts for coverage of related repair topics, such as understanding the signs of a bad AC capacitor.
If your AC is not working, don’t wait for the heat to rise even higher. Contact us for fast, reliable service!

FAQs About Our Air Conditioning Repair Services
Here are some questions our Bloomington customers have asked about our services.
Can a Power Surge Affect My Air Conditioner?
A power surge can damage your air conditioner’s electrical components, including capacitors, circuit boards, and compressors. If your system stops working after a thunderstorm or electrical outage, check the circuit breaker and call your expert technician if that doesn't resolve the problem.
Can Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Improve Cooling Efficiency?
No, closing vents doesn't improve cooling efficiency. It actually disrupts airflow, increasing pressure within the duct system. That strains the system and leads to uneven cooling and potential duct leaks.
How Often Should I Schedule Professional Air Conditioner Maintenance?
We recommend you schedule air conditioner maintenance with Inland Empire Comfort once a year, preferably in the spring before temperatures rise. Regular tune-ups identify potential issues early, improve efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your unit before you find your AC is not working.
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