If it’s running so much, you better go catch it!…
Bad jokes aside, hearing the hum of your air conditioner 24/7 is not only disruptive but could also affect your monthly energy bills and lead to premature replacements.
Why Is my AC Always Running?
If you’ve ever asked yourself why your air conditioner is always running, you’re not alone. It can be frustrating when it seems like the AC never turns off! The good news is that there are a few possible explanations for why this could be happening.
10 possible reasons your AC is running day and night:
- Your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning
- The air conditioner is not properly sized for your space
- There are obstructions blocking airflow around the unit
- The refrigerant levels in your system need to be refilled
- Doors, windows, and other openings are improperly sealed
- Gaps in your insulation
- The evaporator coil is damaged
- The fan motor or blade may need to be replaced or repaired
- Your system’s smart controls are not optimized
- Your ductwork is cracked or damaged
Ways to Combat Continuous AC Cycling
Some of these reasons are easier for the average homeowner to investigate than others. To make sure you aren’t paying for services that you don’t need, start by taking a cursory look at your thermostat. If you have an older model, the heat anticipator can be adjusted to better reflect your needs. If you have a newer model, make sure your thermostat is set to “auto” instead of “on”, as this will ensure your system is only running when you haven’t reached your desired temperature.
If everything looks good with your thermostat, go through your home and check for any cracks or gaps around your windows, doors, skylights, and other openings. Even small gaps can cause conditioned air to leak out of your home and hot, outside air to come in—making your system work harder.
If you are able to easily access your attic, check if your home’s insulation looks consistent throughout—worn, damaged, or insufficient insulation in your attic can also be causing conditioned air to leave your space before you can enjoy it. A professional can let you know about the latest advancements in insulation and seamlessly install it to help you keep your home cool and comfortable without running your AC constantly.
If your thermostat and insulation look to be in good condition, it is time to call in an HVAC professional. An experienced and highly trained technician can perform a thorough inspection of your air conditioner to pinpoint the problem, walk you through your options, and then get to work fixing it. For those homeowners whose AC is inaccurately sized or outdated, a full replacement might be necessary. If this is the case, your technician can help you choose a system that best fits your needs.
Let All Pro Be Your Go-To HVAC Team
By understanding what might be causing your AC to run all the time and contacting the appropriate experts to take steps in addressing the underlying problems, you can help ensure that your cooling system runs more efficiently while also saving you money on utility costs over time.
If your AC is continuously running, or you are dealing with a separate cooling issue, our team at All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical is here to help. We offer same-day appointments and 24-hour emergency repair services to homes in Ontario and the surrounding areas. Call us at (909) 500-8193 to get started!