Why Does My Air Conditioner Keep Taking Breaks?
It’s the middle of summer and the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to keep taking breaks. But alas, here you are with a home that feels like a sauna every time the AC kicks off. If you’re wondering why your air conditioner keeps taking breaks, there are a few potential explanations. Fortunately, most of them are relatively easy (and inexpensive) to fix. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons for an AC unit to take frequent breaks.
The Air Filter Is Dirty.
One of the most common reasons for an air conditioner to keep taking breaks is that the air filter is dirty. A dirty air filter blocks airflow and causes the AC unit to work harder than it needs to cool your home. As a result, the unit will cycle on and off more frequently to avoid overheating. The solution? Change your air filter! Most experts recommend changing your air filter at least once every three months, but if you have pets or live in an area with a lot of airborne allergens, you may need to change it even more frequently.
The Evaporator Coils Are Frozen.
Another potential reason for an AC unit to keep taking breaks is that the evaporator coils are frozen. This usually happens when there isn’t enough airflow over the coils. Without enough airflow, the temperature of the coils drops below freezing and ice starts to form. Check for any obstructions around your AC unit that could be blocking airflow and preventing proper cooling. Also, make sure that all the vents in your home are open and not blocked by furniture or other objects.
The Thermostat Is Set Too Low.
Another common reason for an AC unit to keep taking breaks is that the thermostat is set too low. Remember, your AC unit doesn’t cool your home; it just removes heat from the air inside your home. So if you set the thermostat too low, the AC unit will have to remove too much heat and it will start cycling on and off to avoid overworking itself. Raise the thermostat a few degrees and see if that makes a difference. Depending on how much heat is in your home, you may need to raise it by as much as 5 degrees or more for the AC unit to function properly without constantly taking breaks.
The AC Unit Is Too Small For The Space.
If your AC unit is constantly taking breaks, it could be because it’s not big enough to properly cool your entire home. This is a common problem in homes that have been added on to or have unusually high ceilings. Install a larger AC unit that can adequately cool your entire home. This is usually a job for a professional, so if you’re not sure what size AC unit you need, consult with an HVAC contractor before making a purchase.
There’s A Problem With The Compressor.
Another potential reason for an AC unit to keep taking breaks is that there’s a problem with the compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant through the AC unit, so if it’s not working properly, the entire system can break down. If you suspect there’s a problem with the compressor, it’s best to call in a professional for diagnosis and repair. Trying to fix a compressor yourself can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.
The AC Unit Is Low On Refrigerant.
If your AC unit is low on refrigerant, it will have to work harder to cool your home, which can cause it to keep taking breaks. Have a professional recharge the system with fresh refrigerant. This is not a job for amateurs, so don’t try to do it yourself.
The AC Unit Is Old And Needs To Be Replaced.
Eventually, even the best-maintained AC unit will reach the end of its lifespan and need to be replaced. If your AC unit is more than 10 years old and you’ve been having frequent problems with it, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Invest in a new, high-efficiency AC unit that will give you years of trouble-free operation. Again, this is a job for a professional, so don’t try to do it yourself.
There’s Something Wrong With The Electrical System.
If your AC unit keeps taking breaks, it could be because there’s a problem with the electrical system. This could be anything from a loose wire to a tripped breaker to a blown fuse. If you suspect there’s an electrical problem, it’s best to call in a professional for diagnosis and repair. Trying to fix an electrical problem yourself can be dangerous, so it’s best to
There are several potential reasons why your AC unit might be taking frequent breaks, but fortunately, most of them are relatively easy (and inexpensive) to fix yourself. Start by checking things like the air filter, evaporator coils, and thermostat settings before calling a professional for help. With a little troubleshooting, you should be able to get your AC unit up and running smoothly again in no time!
Do You Need an HVAC Installer You Can Trust?
Superior Mechanical Services, Inc. began in 1948 as a family-owned business with a vision to provide value-minded service with a down-to-earth approach to customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As the premier Commercial and Residential HVAC Service provider for Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton, Superior Mechanical can do it all, from heating and air conditioning services to boiler services, to plumbing services. Our technicians are certified professionals who will ensure every part of your project is done right using a careful checklist to guide and test each step. At the end of your appointment, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your new system and give you tips on maintenance so it lasts for years to come. Contact us today for amazing service tomorrow!
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