What To Do If Your Air Conditioner Runs All The Time
It’s perfectly normal for an AC to run frequently during a hot summer day, but if your air conditioner runs all the time then that’s a sign of a problem that’s worthy of attention.
On an especially hot summer day, it’s expected that your AC will take longer to reach the desired temperature set on your thermostat. But if your air conditioner runs all the time without switching off, this is a reason for concern.
Here are some signs that there may is a problem with your air conditioner:
- Your air conditioner runs all the time without turning off.
- Your air temperature doesn’t change, no matter how low you set your thermostat.
- Your utility bills keep increasing, although you have not been using your AC any differently.
What’s Causing my Air Conditioner to Run All the Time?
There are a number of potential causes for your AC running all the time. This list we compiled should help you to identify the cause behind your AC problem.
- Dirty Evaporator Coils
Air conditioners use refrigerant which runs through the evaporator coils to keep your home cool in the summer. The evaporator coils absorb the heat in your home and carry the heat outdoors into the outside air. When an evaporator coil becomes dirty or damaged it’s much harder for it to absorb heat. The dirt surrounding the coil creates a barrier causing your air conditioner to run all the time without your home getting any cooler.
Cleaning or replacing an evaporator coil is a task best left to a professional HVAC technician. We suggest that you do not try to clean it yourself.
- Air Flow Blockage
Your air conditioner will not be able to operate properly if air flow is blocked to or from your air conditioner. This will cause the unit to run all the time.
Air flow blockage in your air conditioner system can be caused by a dirty air filter, a ductwork leak, closed or blocked vents, or a faulty motor.
Put your hand up to an open air vent in your home to test the air flow. If you feel a very weak stream of air then this indicates a blockage.
A dirty air filter is likely what’s not allowing air flow to the vents in your home. Turn off your AC and change out your clogged filter to a brand new one.
The next step you can take is checking for any blockages in the vents.
If you’re still experiencing problems with the air flow then you should consult with a professional HVAC technician to solve the problem.
- Refrigerant is Leaking
Refrigerant is not supposed to run out or need a refill. The only time refrigerant would run low is if there is a leak.
Clear signs of a refrigerant leak are an ice buildup on your air conditioner, a hissing noise coming from your air conditioner, and your home not getting cooler despite running all the time.
If your AC has a refrigerant leak, have it fixed ASAP by a professional HVAC technician.
- Your Air Conditioner is Undersized
If your air conditioner is too small for your home, then it will have to run nonstop to keep it at your desired temperature. An air conditioner that runs all the time will age prematurely due to the wear and tear inflicted by the constant usage. This will result in many repairs and a shorter lifespan for your AC unit.
Unfortunately, there is only one way to fix an undersized air conditioner, and that is to get one that is the right size for your home.
Contact an HVAC professional that can help you find out exactly what size AC is needed for your home and make the upgrade to a properly-sized unit.
- Your AC is Too Old and is in Need of Replacement
The average lifespan of an AC is 15 years. Even a well maintained unit will not last forever. After the 15 year mark, most homeowners will see their AC become less efficient and experience a number of other issues. This is an indication that you’re in need of an upgrade.
If your air conditioner runs all the time, is in need of frequent repairs, and is over ten years old, it’s probably costing you far more money than it should. Changing to a brand new high efficiency AC will give you new found comfort in your home and will even save you money in the long run.
Talk to one of our HVAC professionals today to help make the transition to a new AC as smooth and easy as possible.
If you have any further questions about why your air conditioner runs all the time or any of your other HVAC concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us at any time. Our highly trained and experienced technicians are more than prepared to assist you with any of your air conditioner problems. A new central air conditioner installation is not as expensive as you may think. DeMark Home Ontario provides renting, purchasing and financing options that are tailored to fit the needs and budgets of any homeowner. We provide efficient and quick air conditioner replacement done by our team of trained and certified HVAC professionals. Give us a call at 1-855-998-2998 or fill out our online request form and we will be happy to assist you with your request.
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