My central air was cold 68 then the next day 85, I turned it off for 4 hrs it got cold but next morning, HOT!?

Question

The unit is working, it shows the temp going way up no problem, The filter is clean, the unit is 3 years old. I live in HUMID air and have not cleaned the coils.

Answer 1

I would check the air duct. Might have come loose or collapsed. If that does not work something is making the compressor not kick on. Get a tech out and they will know most likely in 10 minutes whats wrong. I know trust me I just had the same problem, My AC unit was running and all but all was on was the fan and he came out out had to put a Hard start kit on mine and now it works. Good luck and I hope its fixed now.

Answer 2

Sounds like it could be freezing up.  Try setting the temp on 72-75 see if it helps.  When you set the temp to cold the unit has to work harder and cool the air more it causes the unit coils to for ice on them from the moisture that is being pulled out of the air and this causes the unit to stop working until the ice is gone. ( this is why it is called freezing up in the summer)

Answer 3

Sounds like your compressor is overheating and shutting itself down being too hot. Make sure the fan for the compressor is running at full speed and the aluminum fins around the compressor assembly is not crumpled together or blocked with debris. It needs fresh air from the outside to cool the compressor and dissipate the heat from hot liquid freon that compressor produces. Verify that you feel hot air coming out of the fan.

Answer 4

I'd clean the coils to be sure you have good air flow through them.If that doesn't help have freon checked.I no longer live in Houston(retired);To clean your coils;Take the blower cover/front off and you should be able to see them.They have 2 copper pipes one will get warm (high pressure)and one will get cool(low side)that go to what looks like a radiator with aluminum fins.Air has to go past these fins unobstructed.Use a shop vac(unless you have a steam cleaner);(very) soft brush;rag;mild dish washing liquid.Don't worry about it dripping since the drip pan should catch it.Just try not to bend the fins.The operative word here is FREE AIR FLOW!!!