Your air conditioning system is your best friend during the summer. Not only does your air conditioner cool the air in your home, but it can also help cut down on the humidity so prevalent during the summer months. To stay comfortable, you need to take small steps to ensure your air conditioning is at its best.
When your air conditioning system isn’t up to snuff it can let you know through certain symptoms – like running constantly. A constantly running air conditioner is an enemy to your peace and your wallet and should be remedied immediately. Let’s read about seven common causes of a constantly running AC, so you know what to do.
7 of the Most Common Causes of a Constantly Running Air Conditioning
Dirty Air Filter
The prime cause of many air conditioner problems is fixable – a dirty air filter. A dirty air filter causes your AC to work much more than it should and will constantly run as it tries to keep up with the job. Check your AC filters at least once a month and always change them when they look dirty.
Dirty Coils
Dirt and debris will find their way into your AC unit and dirty up the condenser coils that help your AC to run smoothly. Luckily these are cleaned with a garden hose. Always unplug your unit before rinsing down your coils.
Wrong Size
A unit that is too small for a home or ductwork that is the wrong size can cause cooling inefficiencies leading to an always running unit. Unfortunately, the only real solution to a unit that’s the wrong size is to get the proper unit.
Bad Thermostat
Your thermostat can cause plenty of cooling issues. If your system is running constantly check that your thermostat is set to cool, auto and that the batteries or power source are available. If your thermostat is in an area of the home that is much warmer than the surrounding area you may want to have it moved.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Your car doesn’t do well without regular maintenance, and neither does your AC. Have your AC checked on annually at least by a certified HVAC tech to be certain your unit is in working condition.
Too Many Leaks
Leaks in the ductwork or home mean that your treated air is vanishing outside. If leaks are getting you down have an HVAC technician perform an energy audit to find and seal these leaks. You could save up to 25 percent on heating and cooling bills by plugging your holes.
Old System
The better care you take of your AC unit, the longer it will last, but no amount of work can make it last forever. Sometimes your system may constantly be running because it was too old and worn out to keep up with your home’s demand.
If you have run through this list and your system still runs continuously, it’s time to call out the professionals. Call on a local and reputable HVAC company to take care of all your air conditioning woes. Both your bank account and your sanity will thank you.
