AC Runs Constantly

Even if you have a top-tier air conditioning unit, you’ll need to address issues like an AC that runs nonstop. This common air conditioner problem affects your family’s comfort and raises your monthly energy bills. An AC that won’t turn off will have similar issues to an air conditioner that turns off at night. Faulty components such as the AC sensor or compressor contactor can interfere with the cooling function of the unit.

Extended air conditioner run times will consume unnecessary electrical power, a deeper issue for those running their AC from a generator. Often, you’ll experience poor air movement because the AC unit cannot meet the cooling demands of your household.

Undersized Air Conditioner

Air conditioner sizes matter for maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. For example, the efficiency level of a 4-ton AC vs a 5-ton model is different enough to impact your air conditioner cycle. If your AC unit doesn’t have enough BTUs to suit the square footage of your home, it has to work continuously to reach the correct temperature.

Restricted Airflow from Vents

Ensure that your air vents are open and unobstructed; otherwise, your central air conditioner cannot adequately distribute the cool air. In addition, if the vents or ducts are too dirty, cool air cannot efficiently flow from the ducts. In this case, you’ll want to use vinegar to clean the AC drain line. That’ll help airflow and performance.

Faulty Contactor

The contactor is in the outdoor unit, and it distributes electric power to the electrical components of your AC. In addition to activating the external compressor and condenser fan, the contactor also turns the AC on and off. The contactor features a physical switch, which can get stuck in the “on” position. Without professional services, the electrical circuit will not switch off, leading to a constantly-running AC. If you own a unit with smart features like the best smart air conditioner, smartphone apps can make diagnosing AC problems easier by telling you directly what’s wrong.

Dirty Air Filter

The buildup on a dirty filter can block the airflow in the entire unit, causing your AC to work overtime to reach your desired temperature. Since the cooled air cannot escape the unit, your evaporator and condenser coils can freeze. If you have the correct filter size, replacing the AC filter is a simple maintenance task.

Refrigerant Leak

An AC unit with low refrigerant levels cannot efficiently cool your home. Without a refrigerant charge from an HVAC professional, your air conditioner has to work harder and longer to cool your home. In addition, you’ll eventually have frozen evaporator coils since there isn’t enough coolant to absorb heat from your home. And if those coils are dirty, be sure to know how to clean AC coils as well to prevent issues.