Is Your Air Conditioner Constantly Running? 10 Expert Tips!

Nothing makes you feel more uncomfortable than hearing the air conditioner running Constantly; after a while, it becomes not only continuously audible but also expensive. Staying cool throughout the summer is essential for Sacramento residents, and if your air conditioner is constantly running, it could indicate a malfunction. At Prime Genius Heating, Air & Appliances, we can also help you identify some of the causes of your air conditioner running at the wrong time. Need expert help? Call us at (916) 800-4007 for service in the Greater Sacramento Area. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most likely causes of this and how you might take corrective action.

10 reasons why your air conditioner constantly running:

Ensure Your AC Is the Right Size for Your Home

When your air conditioner fails to turn off, one of the first things to evaluate is if it is the proper size for your home. Believe it or not, both an undersized and an enormous unit can result in inefficiency. If your unit is too tiny, it will struggle to cool the entire space, forcing it to operate continuously simply to keep up. However, if your system is too large, it may switch on and off too frequently in a cycle known as “short cycling,” preventing it from adequately dehumidifying your home.

An HVAC professional can help you assess whether your air conditioner is a good fit for your area and suggest alternatives if it isn’t. In certain situations, downsizing the system or upgrading to a better model may be the solution.

Seal Windows and Doors to Keep Cool Air In

Another common reason for an air conditioner to run continually is a lack of insulation or the presence of leaks near windows and doors. However, if cool air leaks out, your air conditioner will have to work harder and longer to keep your home cool. Simply sealing the crevices around doors and windows, putting weather stripping at doors, and insulating the walls and attics can lessen the amount of load put on air conditioner systems. These improvements help to keep room-cool air inside while also preventing hot outside air from penetrating your home, allowing your air conditioner to relax and consume less energy.

Check Thermostat Placement and Upgrade if Needed

In other cases, it could just be a broken thermostat, and other sophisticated room control systems are involved. For example, if your thermostat is positioned near a heater or a sunny window, it will give a higher reading than the rest of the home, causing your air conditioner to operate for longer than necessary. They include moving the thermostat to a central position or installing a smart thermostat to address this issue. You can more properly manage the temperature in your rooms, and these gadgets can learn your cooling preferences, so your air conditioner does not have to do all of the job.

Replace Dirty Air Filters Regularly

Filters can become congested at times, making it difficult for air to flow through the system, causing the air conditioner to work harder to distribute cool air around your home. Air filters should be replaced or washed every 1-3 months, depending on your setting and whether you have pets or allergies, to ensure that they do not work too hard. If you’re experiencing trouble regulating the filter type, please contact us for help with this or any other maintenance problems.

Schedule Maintenance for the Fan Motor and Blower

Aside from filters, problems with your fan motor and blower may cause your air conditioning systems to run inefficiently. When the motor’s fans fail to function effectively, the air cannot be circulated properly, forcing the system to work for an extended period to chill the rooms to the desired temperature. These are the components that routine HVAC maintenance should look at to ensure they are in good working order. During a professional service visit, our professionals will gladly discuss your needs, lubricate parts, repair worn-out components, and ensure that your air conditioner is operating efficiently.

Fix Low Refrigerant Levels to Boost Cooling Power

Other possible causes could include a low refrigerant charge if your air conditioner is turned on but not cooling properly. It is not uncommon for a refrigerator to leak, and when there is insufficient refrigerant, the air conditioner must run continuously without chilling you down. Working with refrigerant is illegal for the general public for reasons of safety and environmental protection. If you believe you have a refrigerant problem, simply call us at (916) 800-4007 and we will solve it for you. Sealing all leaks and recharging the system can significantly improve the efficacy of an air conditioner.

Watch for Signs of an Overworked AC

As a result, if your air conditioner is constantly turned on, you may notice various signs indicating that it is working overtime. For example, if your energy expenses are more than usual, it is because you use it for longer periods. There may also be hot and cold spots throughout the house, especially if the AC is not effectively circulating the air, which is a sign that your system requires some care. High interior humidity levels are another clue that your air conditioner is working hard, as the units are meant to reduce humidity while cooling. All of these indicators should prompt you to service your system or have its efficiency tested.

Keep Your AC in Shape with Routine Maintenance

It’s simple to keep your air conditioner running just when required. To reduce the frequency of overworking the HVAC, proper maintenance must be performed over time. During an annual service, our professionals will clean the coils, adjust the refrigerant charge, check your thermostat settings, and inspect the fan motor and blower. It also allows you to spot minor issues that, if left unchecked, will escalate into larger and more expensive issues; and finally, it ensures that your AC only operates when essential.

Consider a Smart Thermostat for Smarter Cooling

Therefore, replacing your outdated thermostat with a smart one can also help you prevent the air conditioner from operating longer than it should. When you want to chill your house, you can program a smart device called a thermostat to turn on the air conditioning based on your presence and absence. This way, the thermostat won’t waste energy cooling a room you’re not in. Depending on the hours you set, this can significantly lessen the burden on your air conditioner, or it can result in negligible usage during peak hours.

Replace Older Units for Better Efficiency

In some cases, though, even the best care and maintenance can’t stop an aging air conditioner from running constantly. If your system is over a decade old, it might be time to consider a replacement. Modern air conditioners are far more energy-efficient and use advanced technology to cool your home more effectively while consuming less power. Today’s high-efficiency units come with better energy ratings and longer warranties, making them a solid investment that saves you money in the long run. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace your system, we’d be happy to help you explore the options.

Final Thoughts on Keeping Your Air Conditioner Efficient

Comfort is just as much of a concern as cost when it comes to a constantly running air conditioner. Prime Genius Heating, Air & Appliances can offer the services required for effective air conditioning systems, so you know where to go if you believe you have an insulation issue, thermostat issues, or just need a new air conditioning system. Call us at (916) 800-4007 if you need professional servicing or advice in the Greater Sacramento Area. Let us help you keep your air conditioner cool without overtaxing it.