LG AC Not Cooling? Don't Sweat It! Simple Solutions When Your Fan Is Running

Your Guide to a Cool and Comfortable Home

When your lg ac not cooling but fan is running, it can be incredibly frustrating. You want cool air, not just a breeze! This is a common problem, but often, the solution is simpler than you think.

Here's a quick look at why your LG AC might be running without cooling:

• Dirty Air Filter: Restricted airflow prevents proper cooling.
• Incorrect Thermostat Settings: The unit might not be set to cool.
• Dirty Condenser Coils: Heat cannot escape effectively.
• Low Refrigerant Levels: Not enough coolant to absorb heat.
• Frozen Evaporator Coils: Ice buildup blocks airflow and heat absorption.
• Faulty Electrical Component: A capacitor or motor might be failing.

We've all been there, sweating through a warm day, wondering why the AC isn't doing its job. This guide will help you understand the common reasons behind this issue and what you can do about it.

I'm Bill Scott, General Manager of Smart Climate Solutions. With over 15 years in the HVAC industry, I've helped countless homeowners diagnose and resolve problems like an lg ac not cooling but fan is running, ensuring their indoor climate is always comfortable.

First Steps: Quick and Easy Checks for Your LG AC

Before calling a pro, try these simple checks. Many common AC problems are easy to fix yourself when your lg ac not cooling but fan is running.

How to Troubleshoot an LG AC Not Cooling But Fan Is Running

First, make sure your LG AC is actually set to cool. It sounds obvious, but it's a common oversight.

• Thermostat Settings: Check your thermostat. Ensure it's in "Cool" mode, not "Fan Only," and the temperature is set several degrees below the current room temperature.
• Remote Batteries: Check the batteries in your LG AC remote. A dead remote can't send the right commands.
• Power Cycling: Try a power cycle. Unplug your LG AC from the wall for a minute, then plug it back in. For central AC, turn off the unit's circuit breaker for 5 minutes, then switch it back on. This can reset internal components.
• Circuit Breaker Reset: Check your home's electrical panel. The AC's circuit breaker may have tripped. If so, flip it back to the "on" position.
• GFCI Reset Button: Some LG window or portable units have a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) button on the power cord. Press the "reset" button if it has popped out.

Check for Obvious Airflow Blockages

Even with the fan running, blockages can stop cool air from circulating or prevent heat from escaping.

• Blocked Vents: Inside, make sure all supply vents are open and not blocked by furniture or curtains.
• Outdoor Unit Debris: Outside, check the condenser unit. Clear away any leaves, grass, or debris that could block airflow and prevent the unit from releasing heat.

For more information on keeping your AC running smoothly, check out our guide on AC Maintenance.

Why Your LG AC Is Not Cooling But the Fan Is Running: 5 Common Culprits

If the quick checks didn't solve the problem, it's time to dig a little deeper. When your lg ac not cooling but fan is running, it usually points to a specific issue within the cooling system. Let's explore the five most common culprits.

1. The Air Filter is Dirty or Clogged

This is the most common and easiest fix. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing cooling and forcing your AC to work harder. This can lead to weak cooling, higher energy bills, and even cause the indoor coils to freeze.

How to Fix It: Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filter is crucial. LG recommends cleaning reusable filters every two weeks. You can find specific instructions for your model in your user manual or on the LG Support website.

General steps to clean an LG AC filter:

1. Turn off the AC: Unplug the unit for safety before any maintenance.
2. Locate the filter: On most LG units, lift the front cover to find it.
3. Remove the filter: Gently slide it out. Some models may have specific instructions.
4. Clean the filter: Wash reusable filters with mild soap and lukewarm water. Replace disposable ones with a new filter.
5. Dry completely: Air dry reusable filters in the shade. Never reinstall a damp filter.
6. Reinstall the filter: Slide the dry filter back in and close the cover.

2. The Outdoor Condenser Coils are Filthy

The outdoor condenser unit releases heat from your home. If its coils are covered in dirt, leaves, or debris, it can't release heat effectively. This is a common reason your lg ac not cooling but fan is running without actually cooling your home. The trapped heat forces the compressor to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing wear.

How to Fix It: You can gently clean the outdoor coils yourself.

1. Turn off power: Turn off the power to your outdoor unit at the circuit breaker.
2. Clear debris: Remove any large debris like leaves or twigs from around the unit.
3. Gentle hose spray: Use a garden hose with a gentle spray (never a pressure washer) to rinse the coils from the outside in.
4. Allow to dry: Let the unit dry completely before restoring power.

For more details on how a condenser unit functions, refer to our guide on AC Maintenance.

3. The Evaporator Coils are Frozen

If you get warm air or see ice on the indoor unit, you likely have frozen evaporator coils. This serious issue stops your AC from absorbing heat. It's often caused by restricted airflow from a dirty filter or low refrigerant levels. The ice buildup blocks airflow even more, creating a cycle of poor performance.

What to Do:

1. Turn off your AC immediately: Switch your thermostat from "Cool" to "Fan Only" or turn the unit off. Do not chip away the ice, as this can damage the coils.
2. Allow to thaw: Let the ice melt naturally for several hours. Place towels around the indoor unit to catch water.
3. Address the cause: Once thawed, check your air filter and vents. If the problem returns, it's likely a refrigerant issue that needs professional attention.

You can learn more about these components in our AC Maintenance guide.

4. You May Have a Refrigerant Issue

Refrigerant is the chemical that cools your home's air. Low refrigerant means there's a leak, as it doesn't get "used up." If you suspect this is why your lg ac not cooling but fan is running, it's a job for a professional.

• Signs of Low Refrigerant:

  • Warm air blowing from vents.
  • Hissing or bubbling noises.
  • Ice forming on refrigerant lines or coils.
  • Higher energy bills.
  • The compressor runs constantly.

• Professional Repair: You need a certified HVAC technician to handle refrigerant. It is a hazardous chemical. A technician will locate and repair the leak before properly recharging the system.

For more details on AC refrigerants, visit our page on AC refrigerants. If you need expert help, our Air Conditioner Repair Services are available.

5. Could a Faulty Capacitor Be Why My LG AC Not Cooling But Fan Is Running?

Capacitors are small electrical parts that start and run the AC's motors. If the compressor's capacitor fails, the fan may run, but the compressor won't. This is a common reason an lg ac not cooling but fan is running.

• Compressor Not Starting: The compressor is essential for cooling. A bad capacitor can prevent it from starting. You might hear a humming noise from the outdoor unit as it tries and fails to start.
• Humming Noise: A persistent hum from the outdoor unit is a classic sign of a failing capacitor.

How to Fix It: This is a job for a professional. Capacitors store a high electrical charge and are dangerous to handle without proper training. A technician will safely test and replace the faulty component.

For information on potential costs, see our guide on AC Compressor Repair Cost.

When to Stop DIY and Call a Professional

It's tempting to DIY a fix when your lg ac not cooling but fan is running. While it can save money, some AC issues are complex and dangerous, requiring special tools. DIY repairs on complex problems can void your warranty, cause more damage, or lead to injury. Knowing when to call a pro is key.

Signs You Need an Expert Technician

Here are clear warning signs that your lg ac not cooling but fan is running problem needs professional attention.

• Persistent humming or buzzing: A constant hum from the outdoor unit often signals an electrical issue, like a bad capacitor or failing motor. These parts carry a dangerous electrical charge.
• Signs of a refrigerant issue: Hissing sounds or ice on the coils (after you've cleaned the filter) point to a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a hazardous material that requires certified handling.
• Electrical problems: If your circuit breaker keeps tripping or you smell something burning, turn off the AC and call a professional immediately. High-voltage electrical work is not a DIY job.
• Compressor failure: If the outdoor unit is silent or just hums without the large fan spinning, the compressor may have failed. This is the heart of your AC and requires expert repair.
• Frequent cycling: If your AC turns on and off repeatedly (short cycling), it could be a faulty sensor, an oversized unit, or an electrical problem that needs a professional diagnosis.
• AC will not turn on after reset: If you've tried all the basic troubleshooting and the AC still won't turn on, it's time for a professional diagnosis.

At Smart Climate Solutions, we've been helping folks in Western Pennsylvania, Southwestern PA, southeast Ohio, and northern West Virginia stay comfortable for over 15 years. We serve communities including Pittsburgh PA, South Hills PA, Burgettstown PA, Washington PA, Steubenville OH, St. Clairsville OH, and Weirton WV with certified technicians who know how to fix these tricky problems.

We understand AC problems don't wait, which is why we offer 24/7 emergency support. Check out our 24 Hour AC Repair services for those urgent situations.

Frequently Asked Questions About LG AC Cooling Issues

We get a lot of questions about LG ACs that aren't cooling. Here are some of the most common ones we hear, along with some helpful answers:

How do I reset my LG air conditioner?

A simple reset can often fix minor glitches when your lg ac not cooling but fan is running. To reset your unit, turn it off. Then, unplug it from the wall (or turn off its circuit breaker for a central system). Wait at least 60 seconds to allow all internal components to reset. Plug it back in (or flip the breaker on), turn on the AC, and set it to cool. For window or portable units, check for a GFCI reset button on the power cord and press it if needed.

Why does my LG AC only blow cold air for a minute then stop?

If your AC blows cold air for a minute then stops, it's likely "short cycling." This means it's not completing a full cooling cycle. This can be caused by an oversized unit, a faulty temperature sensor, an overheating compressor (due to dirty coils or low refrigerant), or dirty condenser coils. Because this involves multiple potential issues, a professional diagnosis is often needed to pinpoint the exact problem.

What is LG's I Control Ampere Technology and does it affect cooling?

This smart LG feature lets you control your AC's power consumption to save energy or prevent circuit overloads. Does it affect cooling? Not directly. It's an energy management feature. Setting the amperage too low might reduce cooling effectiveness in a large room, but it won't cause the compressor to fail while the fan runs. It's about efficiency, not a system malfunction.

Get Your Cool Back for Good

It's a bummer when your lg ac not cooling but fan is running. As we've covered, many common causes, like a dirty air filter or an incorrect thermostat setting, are simple DIY fixes.

Proactive care is key. Regular maintenance, like cleaning filters and outdoor coils, prevents issues like frozen evaporator coils and keeps your LG AC running efficiently for years. It's the best way to ensure your comfort and get the most out of your investment.

While we love empowering you with helpful tips, there are times when it's smarter (and safer!) to call in the pros. If you're dealing with something serious like low refrigerant, persistent frozen evaporator coils, or suspect an electrical component failure like a faulty capacitor, please don't tackle it alone. These are complex issues that need specialized tools and expertise.

That's where we, Smart Climate Solutions, come in! We're here to make sure your home stays perfectly cool and comfortable. Our team of certified technicians has over 15 years of experience and is equipped to quickly diagnose and fix your AC right. Whether it's a simple tweak or a more involved repair, we handle it all with fast, reliable service. So, don't sweat it out any longer! If you're in Pittsburgh PA, South Hills PA, Burgettstown PA, Washington PA, Steubenville OH, St. Clairsville OH, Weirton WV, or anywhere across Western Pennsylvania, Southwestern PA, southeast Ohio, or northern West Virginia, we're just a call away.

Contact us for expert HVAC Service and Repair and let's get your cool back for good!