4 Reasons Your Air Conditioning System Is Running Constantly

Is your air conditioning system working overtime? Hot summer temperatures may be the reason your Barstow, California, HVAC unit is running all the time. After all, it has to work harder to dehumidify your home and keep inside temperatures at the set level.

But if your system is constantly running but not cooling off your home, something may be wrong. Here’s why your air conditioning system constantly runs.

Dirty Evaporator or Condenser Coils

When your HVAC unit’s inside coils are dirty, it’s harder for the refrigerant to absorb the air’s heat. And when the exterior coils are dirty, the refrigerant can’t adequately release heat. In both cases, your HVAC system continuously runs as it tries to cool the air. To remedy the problem, have an HVAC expert clean both sets of coils.

Low Refrigerant

If your system is low on refrigerant, it will have trouble reaching the desired temperature. But it keeps trying, resulting in an always-running system. If the system is running, but the air temperature doesn’t get cooler, you may have a refrigerant leak. An HVAC professional can determine the location of the leak, repair it and add refrigerant to get the system back up and running.

Faulty Thermostat

Your thermostat may be to blame if your air conditioner isn’t shutting off. Your home could reach your desired temperature, but the thermostat isn’t picking up on it. Place a thermometer near your thermostat to determine if it’s malfunctioning. Check your thermometer’s reading after an hour or a couple of hours. If it’s at the temperature you want it to be, then you should check a few things before calling a technician.

Try a few troubleshooting tips if your air conditioner is constantly running. First, set your thermostat five degrees lower and then see if your system will come on. Second, make sure you set your thermostat to “cool.” In addition, make sure that the main circuit breaker is set to the on position for your air conditioner.

Dirty Air Filters

If your HVAC system’s air filters become clogged with dirt, the system must work harder to pull air through. And if air can’t flow over the coils, the system can’t remove the humidity and cool the air. But it keeps running and trying to reach the set temperature. Make sure you’re changing the filters regularly to avoid buildup.

While many of these issues can be prevented with regular maintenance, it’s nice to have a trusted professional in your corner when unexpected problems happen. Our professionals at Clemmer Services Heating & Air Conditioning are always available to help you repair your HVAC unit and get it running smoothly. Call us to schedule an appointment today.

Originally published in September 2018, updated in May 2020

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