Whirlpool Reduced Cooling Capacity / Poor Heat Transfer

Air conditioner runs but does not cool the room effectively; air from the front grille is only slightly cooler than room temperature.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dirty evaporator or condenser coils, clogged air filter, low refrigerant charge, failing compressor, blocked condenser airflow on exterior side

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the unit before cleaning coils or filters.

Steps to improve cooling:

  • Clean the filter: Remove and wash the air filter. A clogged filter is the most common cause of poor cooling.
  • Clean coils: Access both indoor (evaporator) and outdoor (condenser) coils. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and lint. For heavy dirt, use a coil cleaner suitable for aluminum fins.
  • Check installation: Ensure a window or through-the-wall unit is properly sealed around the sleeve so hot outdoor air is not leaking into the room.
  • Room size and load: Confirm the unit's BTU rating matches the room size and that doors/windows are closed and heat sources (ovens, direct sun) are minimized.

If airflow is good and coils are clean but cooling remains weak, the system may have a low refrigerant charge or compressor issue, which requires professional service.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5
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