It is annoying to be hot and sticky during the summer. When your air conditioner runs continuously, it can also become expensive and irritating. Identifying the causes of air conditioners that run all day as we move closer to summer is important.
There are some quick tips that you can use to fix your air conditioner or find out the cause of the problem.
In today’s blog post, I will show you what to look out for (most of these issues can be resolved) and how to prevent them.
Your A/C may appear to run non-stop for a variety of reasons. Truthfully, it’s not always a bad thing. Some of these reasons could indicate that your system is malfunctioning, while others could alert you to problems in your home.
There are 7 common reasons why your air conditioner runs non-stop.
1. The wrong size and installation can be damaging
We should start by stating that a central air conditioner of the right size and energy efficiency will operate fairly continuously during summer to maintain a consistent, desired temperature within your home. These systems will operate at the highest efficiency when allowed to work at full speed.
The unit is too small: A central air conditioner in Knoxville TN that is too small will have to work harder to cool down your home. This will wear out your unit over time and shorten its lifespan. Even though you run the system frequently, your home will never reach the desired temperature. Defects are also likely.
If the unit is too big, it will not be able to remove moisture effectively from your home’s air, which results in a moist and clammy output. The unit will run for shorter periods of time than necessary and consume excessive amounts of electricity. This will result in higher utility costs.
Wrong Duct Size: Your ductwork size should match the size of your AC unit. Your ducts may not be able to handle airflow and distribute cool air to all areas of your home if they are the wrong size.
Correct installation and using the right size air conditioner can solve 75% of all air conditioning problems.
Let’s look at what you can fix immediately, if not the size. Checking your filter is all it takes.
2. Check Your Air Filter for Immediate Relief
When was the last change you made to your air filter?
It’s likely dirty and restricting the airflow if it has been a while. It will reduce the amount of air that your air conditioner can produce. This will cause your air conditioner to seem like it runs more throughout the day. Your air handler must work harder if your air filter becomes clogged.
Do you know that a dirty air filter is the most common cause of an HVAC system breaking down?
Dirty filters make your system work harder, causing it to overheat. The airflow will be improved by cleaning the debris on your filters. Replace or clean your filters every month or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The system will continue to run if not enough air is moving over the coils.
3. Are your air conditioner coils dirty?
Pet hair, grass clippings, mud, or other types of dirt can block airflow.
What happens when airflow is reduced ?…
Diminished performance. Lower energy efficiency (and perhaps the A/C is running non-stop).
An air conditioning contractor in Knoxville TN should perform an annual system checkup for homeowners. The technician will check your condenser coils and evaporator.
The condenser coils must be cleaned as they are constantly exposed to outside elements. Condenser coil efficiency can be maintained by hosing the unit down. First, turn off the electrical power to your system.
It is more difficult to access the evaporator coils. Visual inspection is more difficult than for condenser coils. They also need maintenance. The key is to perform annual maintenance to remove this dirt and dust.
4. Thermostat not working? Here’s what to do
Your thermostat may have a problem if your system never seems to shut off. Your home may have reached the right temperature but your thermostat isn’t registering it. Your A/C will continue to run in this situation.
Place another thermometer close to the thermostat. Check the reading after an hour or so. If the temperature is near or at your desired home setting, your thermostat may have a problem.
5. If you have an air leak or poor insulation, it’s time to seal.
Insufficient insulation or poor sealing can also cause your air conditioner to run continuously and inefficiently. You may lose the cool air you need in summer if your house is not sealed up tightly while your A/C is running. This could be due to small holes, non-insulated walls, roofs, or other problems.
You may not reach the desired temperature in your home if you lose the cool air this way. This will cause the A/C to run longer than necessary. This article will give you some background information on why sealing and insulating your home is important.
6. Air Conditioning Units Need Maintenance
Air conditioning units, like all other appliances, require regular maintenance to run smoothly. Maintenance should be done twice a year – in the spring, before the hot weather arrives, and early in the fall, after the temperature has cooled and the unit is not in use. You will experience airflow issues and inefficient cycling if your system, including your coils, ducts and air filter, is not cleaned.
A technician will make sure that everything is clean and well-lubricated. He/she replaces worn-out parts and checks that the thermostat works properly. It is important to maintain your A/C system regularly. This will ensure that it works properly and will extend its life.
7. It is time to replace your unit
Air conditioners are designed to last a certain amount of time. It will eventually wear down even if you have properly maintained your unit.
You may now want to replace your old inefficient unit. You will save money over time because the newer units are more efficient.
Take action before problems arise.
All of the reasons above can cause your air conditioners to run more than they should, costing you more money. If you’re concerned, you should contact a professional to inform them that your A/C is running continuously.
It’s likely to be something simple. Repairing the problem now will reduce future costs even if the issue is more serious.
If you need an expert to fix your air conditioner, call J.C.’s Heating and Air now.
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Areas Served: Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Farragut, Powell, Knoxville, Knox County, Oak Ridge, Lenoir City
