Can You Identify Warning Signs of Your Air Conditioner Working Too Hard?
When your air conditioner is overworking, there can be two things going on that you don’t want. First, it’s probably driving up your energy costs. Second, it might be wearing down the system to the point of needing expensive repairs or even resulting in premature system failure. Knowing how to identify warning signs of an overworked system can help you prevent damage and maintain efficiency. The following are common things to look out for.
Constant Running
Constant running without ever turning off is perhaps the clearest indicator of an air conditioner that’s overworked. It should normally cycle on and off as it maintains a desired temperature without continuous operation. However, constant running might mean it’s undersized for your home, there are clogged ducts, or a dirty air filter is slowing down the process. If any of these issues seem to be likely, a technician should evaluate the entire system in case there’s more than one issue present.
Warm Air Coming From Vents
When the air coming out of your vents is warm or just mildly cool, this might indicate an overworked system. An air conditioner working harder than necessary to get your home to the right temperature might have a dirty evaporator coil, a failing compressor, or low levels of refrigerant. HVAC technicians can diagnose each of these conditions and take the proper restorative actions.
Increased Energy Bills
It’s understandable that your energy bills might go up during the cooling season because of the warmer weather. However, if you get another noticeable spike after your AC is already running at seasonally high levels, it might point to overworking. Track your home’s regular energy use to see any unusual increases. Scheduling regular maintenance should help your air conditioner operate efficiently. Your technician can tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and clean coils to prevent the system from overworking.
Strange Noises
An overworked air conditioner might produce unusual noises, including rattling, squealing, and grinding. Worn-down parts might cause these sounds, but increased friction can also do it. Don’t ignore these sounds of a struggling system; they probably indicate issues that can get worse over time. Have a technician inspect the unit and conduct the proper repairs.
Frequent Cycling
Does your AC cycle on and off frequently? If so, short cycling might be happening. This is a condition when the system is working harder than it has to in order to cool your home. Potential causes include oversized equipment, dirty filters, and improper thermostat settings.
Save Money, Stress, and Time
Spotting the signs of an air conditioner working too hard can spare you from the time, stress, and money involved in costly repairs while you extend your system’s life. Addressing common issues, including frequent cycling, strange noises, higher energy bills, warm air, and constant running, can happen when you have the system inspected and maintained regularly by HVAC technicians.
If you notice any of these warning signs in your Santa Barbara, CA home, we’re ready to help. Contact Crocker Refrigeration Heating & Air for all your home’s air conditioning needs.
