Something’s wrong with the air conditioning. Instead of its usual routine of cycling on and off, suddenly the AC keeps running all the time.
Does this describe the scene in your home? If so, use our list to troubleshoot common AC issues and figure out the best solution.
1. Check The Thermostat: AC Setting
Make sure that your thermostat is working and is at a realistic setting (21 to 25 degrees is the recommended A/C temperature).
Set it too low, and you can cause your air conditioner to run constantly, rather than going through several 15-20 minute cycles of “on” time per hour. The same is true if you position the thermostat in a hot spot, such as right next to a steamy bathroom.
2. Check The Thermometer: Outdoor Temperature
Ottawa summers can be real scorchers. When the outside temperature rises to the high 20s and above, it’s a fact of life: your air conditioning will be forced to work harder – and longer – to keep your home cool.
While you can’t do anything about the weather, you can reduce the indoor heat level by closing curtains to block the sun, avoiding cooking and baking (your microwave or grill are easy alternatives), and minimizing use of heat-producing incandescent light bulbs.
3. Clean Your System
Here’s a situation where action is definitely called for. When the filter or coils are full of dust and yuck, your AC keeps running to make up for the restricted airflow that results. Please – take a few minutes to change the filter or clean the coils. Clear any blockage from the vents, too. Your air conditioner will thank you.
4. Have Refrigerant Leak Repaired
If your refrigerant is low, the AC keeps running to compensate. Refrigerant doesn’t burn up or evaporate, so a low supply means you’ve got a leak. (Warning signals include air conditioner freezing up, not cooling, or producing a hissing noise.) Refrigerant leak location and repair are complex tasks, so contact an HVAC pro for A/C repair.
5. Tune Up Your Air Conditioning
Like all appliances, air conditioners tends to perform less efficiently after years of wear and tear. However, regular air conditioner maintenance and tuneups can slow your AC system’s aging process, ensuring longer life and improved performance.
6. “Tune Up” Your Home: Seal Cracks And Add Insulation
A reason that might never occur to you is that your AC keeps running because your home can’t hold in all that cooled air. Leaks and gaps in the building envelope, or a lack of insulation, take some time to correct, but this chore will pay off in the form of more efficient HVAC and reduced electricity bills.
7. Right-Size Your System
Maybe the fact that your AC keeps running whenever it’s in use is a longstanding issue. If so, the person you purchased it from may have sold you the wrong size.
Obviously, air conditioning that is just too small for your household will need to work harder to give you the level of cooling you need. It might be time to invest in an efficient new central air system that will keep you comfortable and consume less electricity.
Ottawa Home Services Has Solutions
Air conditioners are affected by a variety of problems. But don’t worry. Whatever the issue, our team can handle it.
Whether you’re looking for air conditioner repair, maintenance, or replacement, Ottawa Home Services is the right address. Contact us for fast professional service.