Is Your AC Running Nonstop? Here's How to Fix It

Air conditioners are meant to keep the indoor temperature of your house comfortable. This is possible only when the AC runs just as much as it should. If it does not work well or enough, you will not get the desired comfort at home and if it runs overtime, it will increase your energy bills manifold and also cause extensive wear and tear of parts. Also, the constant noise of the AC running can be disturbing to residents.

It’s vital to understand how much your AC should run depending on the season, and if it is running constantly, why it may be doing so. The problem usually lies in the unit and its components. Checking these and conducting some maintenance and repair work can solve the issue.

Here are some common causes for the AC running non-stop and what you can do to fix it.

1. Dirty evaporator coils

Evaporator coils hold the refrigerant that absorbs indoor heat and helps in keeping your house cool. With time, dirt, and grime settle on the evaporator coil creating a barrier that does not allow the refrigerant to absorb heat. In such cases, the AC keeps running but rooms do not get cooled. The coils must be cleaned regularly.

2. Low refrigerant levels

Refrigerant levels must be maintained so that heat can be absorbed well and your house can be cooled to the temperature you desire. If there is a refrigerant leak, the AC will have to keep running constantly to make up for the loss in cooling. Refrigerant leaks are often identified by hissing sounds in the unit, no difference in indoor temperature or icy build up. Get a technician to check for leaks and top up the refrigerant immediately.

3. Blocked air filters

If the air filters inside the unit are clogged with dirt, air cannot pass through them easily. If air does not flow over the coils, the unit cannot remove humidity from indoor air or cool your house to the desired temperature. This will result in the AC running constantly but in vain. Air filters must be cleaned or replaced every few months, to ensure smooth flow of air.

4. Faulty thermostat

The thermostat can cause the functioning of your AC to go haywire. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, the AC will not switch On and Off when it is supposed to. This will put pressure on your system. Check your thermostat and replace it if need be.

5. Wrong sized unit

If all the components of your AC are in good working condition and are functioning fine, then you probably got the size of your unit wrong. A unit that is smaller than what your house requires, will have to run constantly to attain the indoor temperature you desire. This will cause unnecessary wear and tear of parts, increase your energy bills and repair expenses.

Ensure that your HVAC company does thorough space and size calculations before installing or replacing your AC unit.

Most of these issues can be avoided with regular preventive maintenance for your Bay Area unit.