A few days ago, CAST Heating & Air Conditioning received a phone call from Sarah, a customer in Garland, TX. She was dealing with high energy bills and an AC that was running constantly, never shutting off.
When your air conditioner seems to be running a marathon without a finish line, you might think it’s just working hard to keep up with the blazing heat. However, an AC that never stops is like a car driving endlessly without a pit stop.
Let’s dive into why your AC might be running constantly and what you can do to fix it.
Why It’s a Problem
Increased Energy Bills
When your air conditioner runs nonstop, your energy bills can skyrocket. Each moment your AC is working, it’s consuming electricity, which can lead to a significant increase in your monthly utility costs.
Think of it as throwing your hard-earned money into a fire. No one wants to see their hard-earned cash evaporate because of a malfunctioning AC.
Wear and Tear on Components
An air conditioner that never rests is subject to excessive wear and tear. The constant operation strains internal components, shortening their lifespan and increasing the likelihood of breakdowns.
This means more frequent and expensive repairs. You’ve invested a lot in your cooling system, so you want it to last as long as possible.
Risk of Complete System Failure
Ignoring the constant hum of your AC can lead to a complete system failure. When your AC runs continuously, it’s signaling that there’s an underlying problem. If left unchecked, this can result in a catastrophic breakdown, leaving you without cooling during the hottest time of the year.
No one wants to be stuck in the Texas heat without air conditioning.
Common Causes of Constant AC Operation
Clogged Air Filters
When Sarah called CAST Heating & Air about her AC running nonstop, our technician found her air filters clogged. After changing out her air filters, we got her AC working much more efficiently.
A clogged air filter can choke your AC. When air can’t flow freely, your system struggles to maintain the desired temperature, causing it to run continuously.
Changing or cleaning your filters every 30 days can help your AC catch its breath. This simple step can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run.
Frozen Coils
One common issue is frozen coils. When your AC runs nonstop, but your home still isn’t cooling, the coils are likely frosted over. This often happens due to a lack of regular maintenance.
If you notice this problem, turn off your system immediately and call CAST Heating & Air. We’ll diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your AC runs efficiently again.
Dirty Coils
Over time, the coils in your AC can accumulate dust and debris. Dirty coils restrict airflow, making it harder for your system to cool your home. This forces your AC to work overtime.
Regular coil cleaning can prevent this problem. At CAST Heating & Air, we offer preventive maintenance services to keep your coils clean and your system running smoothly.
Refrigerant Leaks
Leaks in the refrigerant lines can severely impact your AC’s cooling ability. If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t be able to cool your home effectively, leading to constant operation.
CAST Heating & Air can find and repair these leaks and replenish your refrigerant levels to restore efficient cooling.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your AC to run nonstop, even when your home is cool enough. Check your thermostat settings and replace the battery if necessary. If it still doesn’t work correctly, call in the professionals. Our technicians can diagnose and fix any thermostat issues, ensuring your system runs as it should.
Motor or Fan Issues
Problems with the blower motor or fan can make it difficult for your AC to keep your home cool. It’s tempting to look up a DIY solution, but it is best left to the pros. CAST Heating & Air can quickly identify and resolve motor or fan issues, whether replacing parts or making adjustments.
Leaky Ductwork
Cracks and holes in your ductwork can allow cool air to escape, reducing your system’s efficiency. This forces your AC to run longer to achieve the desired temperature.
Let CAST Heating & Air inspect your ductwork for leaks. We’ll seal any gaps, improving your system’s efficiency and reducing the strain on your AC.
Incorrect System Size
If you’ve recently renovated or expanded your living space, your AC might struggle to keep up. An undersized system can’t handle the increased demand, leading to constant operation.
CAST Heating & Air can calculate load to determine if your system is appropriately sized for your home. We can recommend and install a system that meets your needs if necessary.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital in preventing the issues that cause constant AC operation. Here are some steps you can take to keep your system in top shape:
- Schedule Regular Tune-Ups: Have a professional inspect and tune up your AC at least once a year. This can help identify and address potential problems before they become significant issues.
- Change Air Filters Regularly: Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30 days can significantly improve your system’s efficiency.
- Keep Coils Clean: Ensure your coils are dust and debris-free. Regular coil cleaning can prevent airflow restrictions and enhance cooling performance.
- Check Refrigerant Levels: Make sure your refrigerant levels are adequate. Low refrigerant can cause your system to work harder, leading to constant operation.
- Inspect Ductwork: Have your ductwork inspected for leaks and seal any gaps. This can improve airflow and reduce the strain on your system.
- Keep the Area Around Your AC Unit Clear: Ensure no debris or obstructions around your outdoor unit. This can help maintain proper airflow and prevent overheating.
- Use a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you manage your cooling schedule more efficiently, reducing the need for constant operation.
- Close Blinds and Curtains: During the hottest parts of the day, keep your blinds and curtains closed to reduce the heat entering your home. This can help your AC work less.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Ensure your windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent cool air from escaping. This can help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the strain on your AC.
Final Thoughts
An air conditioner that runs nonstop is a sign that something is wrong. The longer you ignore the issue, the more you’ll feel it in your wallet, from skyrocketing energy bills to hefty repair costs or even the dreaded total system replacement. Swift action and professional help can clear you of these headaches by identifying and solving the root causes of your AC’s relentless operation.
At CAST Heating & Air, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners in Combine, TX, and the surrounding areas keep their homes cool and comfortable. Don’t wait for a crisis—call us today at (972) 955-2588 to schedule a service appointment.
Trust CAST Heating & Air to keep your system in top shape so you can stay cool and comfortable no matter how hot it gets outside.