You’ve got a runaway AC! The idea of an air conditioner that’s almost continuously sending out cool air may seem refreshing during the hottest days of the summer, but it will soon lead to a house that’s too cold and electric bills that are far too high. It also places an enormous amount of strain on the air conditioner, and that can mean extra repairs and possibly an early need to replace the unit with a new AC installation in Sandersville, GA.
You might think that you can simply raise the thermostat setting to fix this problem. But you shouldn’t: if you push the thermostat higher than you normally would, it means there’s a malfunction somewhere that you need to address. We’ll look at some of the possibilities for a nonstop air conditioner so you’ll have a good idea of how to deal with it.
Common Causes of a Runaway AC
Thermostat Issues
- Miscalibration: If the thermostat is not accurately measuring the temperature, it might not signal the AC to turn off.
- Faulty Wiring: Damaged or loose wires can cause the thermostat to send incorrect signals to the AC unit.
- Location Problems: If the thermostat is in a spot that’s particularly warm (like near a window), it may think the house is hotter than it is.
Dirty Air Filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making the AC work harder and longer to cool the house. Replacing or cleaning the filter can often resolve this issue.
Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels due to a leak can cause the AC to run continuously as it struggles to reach the set temperature. This is a problem that requires professional repair.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
If the evaporator coil freezes, it can’t effectively absorb heat from the air, leading to the AC running non-stop. This can be caused by airflow issues, refrigerant problems, or both.
Blocked Condenser Unit
If the outdoor condenser unit is obstructed by debris, it can’t properly release heat, causing the AC to run constantly to try to cool the house.
Undersized Air Conditioner
An AC unit that is too small for the space it’s cooling will run more frequently and for longer periods in an attempt to cool the entire area.
Leaky Ductwork
Leaks in the ductwork can cause cool air to escape before it reaches the rooms in your home, causing the AC to run longer to reach the desired temperature.
What You Should Do
If your air conditioner is running nonstop, it’s important to address the root cause rather than just adjusting the thermostat. Ignoring the problem can lead to higher energy bills, discomfort, and potentially more costly repairs down the line.
Premier Heating & Air has been family owned and operated since 2001. Our team of skilled technicians is ready to diagnose and repair any issues with your air conditioning system, ensuring it runs efficiently and effectively. Don’t let a runaway AC ruin your summer comfort or your budget.