Reasons Why an Air Conditioner Runs Constantly
When an air conditioner wears out because of old age, it takes more effort to cool the air inside a home than when it was new.
A working air conditioner keeps a home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. However, when the equipment runs continuously without shutting off or cooling the house, it signals a problem. Here are some of the reasons why that might be happening.
Unclean evaporator coil
The efficiency of an AC working will depend on the state of the evaporator coil. When the AC has a dirty evaporator, it will struggle to cool the space house. Scheduling regular services and maintenance can save an AC system from this problem.
Dirty air filter
Debris and dirt on an air conditioner’s air filter will block the airflow to the coil, which can hamper the system’s functionality. The AC requires airflow to its coils to remove humidity and facilitate air cooling. When an air conditioning system cannot cool the space, it will run non-stop.
Faulty thermostat
A thermostat regulates the powering on and off of an AC system. Thermostat senses when the cooling degree has been achieved and automatically turns off the system. If faulty, the AC will not know when to power off.
Dirty condenser
The AC system requires servicing and cleaning to ensure all parts are free from debris that can block the airflow. The presence of debris and dirt hampers the air conditioner’s functionality.
Poor insulation
A home’s insulation significantly affects how the AC system works. When the home is poorly insulated, the air quickly escapes. Thus, the air conditioner continuously runs in an effort to fill the home with fresh, cool air.
AC system is old
When an air conditioner wears out because of old age, it takes more effort to cool the air inside a home than when it was new. Therefore, homeowners should consider replacing the worn, outdated system.
Incorrectly sized air conditioner
When remodeling or adding on to a home, homeowners must budget for an air conditioning system upgrade. Calculations are done to ensure the HVAC unit installed in a home can efficiently cool the space. A small AC system will struggle to cool the air of a larger home.
Low coolant charge
Coolant or refrigerant in an AC system is critical in cooling the air in a house. A low refrigerant charge in the order will struggle to cool the air hence constant running. An HVAC expert can test the system’s coolant level and refill it. One word of caution - HVAC systems don’t lose coolant for no reason. Often, there is a leak that needs to be repaired.
Low blower speed
If the AC system’s blower cannot deliver enough air for the system, the air conditioner will not work efficiently, which forces the system to run continuously.
Leaky air ducts
Older or leaky air ducts in a home that let air out could be another reason the air conditioner is continuously running. An HVAC professional can check the ducts and offer insight on the best way to repair them or the cost to replace them.
Find a trustworthy HVAC contractor to provide a solution for a continually running air conditioner and save on electrical bills.
CMB Air is a residential heating and cooling installation, service, and repair company with 15+ years of experience serving Tampa and surrounding areas. If you need a new air conditioner, repair, maintenance or some other service, we can help! Call (813) 447-1443 today!
