Is Your Air Conditioner Running For Longer Hours Than Normal?

If your AC runs for too long, it will be over-working the machine, giving rise to wear and tear and you will end up paying high utility bills. If it doesn’t run enough, you will not be able to get the desired temperature inside your house.

When should the air conditioner run more?

Your air conditioner will have to run longer when it is very hot outside. An air conditioner running longer than usual in summers is quite normal, as it has to bring the indoor temperature to a certain level and maintain it.

This shows that your air conditioner is working just fine. But ensure that you can still hear it switching off and on once in a while.

The most important thing to note is that your air conditioner must not in any case run all the time. But there will be times when you will have to use it more than usual. HVAC systems are generally automated and your air conditioner should switch on and off depending on the temperature settings.

If you notice the following issues with your air conditioner, it might be a judicious idea to get it checked by a technician.

a. Your air conditioner is running 24/7.

b. Your energy bills are extremely high although there is no difference in air conditioner use.

c. No matter how long your air conditioner is running or how low your thermostat goes, the indoor temperature does not seem to change.

Causes of Air Conditioner Running Constantly

1. Blocked air flow

The air flow to and from your air conditioner could be restricted due to multiple reasons such as a clogged filter, a malfunctioning motor, leaks in the ductwork or blocked vents. In this case, your AC will have to keep running. You can check the air flow by holding your hand in front of an air vent.

You will either feel a weak stream of air or none at all. Changing the air filter can often solve the problem. But if that does not make a difference, call an HVAC technician.

2. Dirty evaporator coils

The refrigerant running through the evaporator coils absorbs heat from your house and is responsible for cooling. Over time, dirt and grime settle on the evaporator coils, creating a barrier for the refrigerant to absorb heat. Thus, your AC keeps running but the room doesn’t get cooled. Clean evaporator coils are necessary for cooling.

3. Refrigerant leak

If your refrigerant levels have gone down due to a leak, your AC will keep running to make up for it. Refrigerant levels are to be stable. Leaks can be identified by your AC making hissing sounds, having icy buildup on it or no difference to indoor temperature despite the AC running constantly.

4. Wrong sized air-conditioner

If your AC is too small for your home it will have to run constantly to cool the place, adding to wear and tear. This will result in more repairs and a shorter lifespan. In this case, you can’t do much except replace it.