Is It Normal for My AC To Constantly Run?

An air conditioner that runs all the time will likely cost you a lot of money. Of course, during the hottest part of the summer, your air conditioner is going to run due to the heat, but it shouldn’t be constantly running.

Long story short, it is not normal for your air conditioner to be running constantly. Our team at Super Heat & Air explains what could be causing the problem and how to fix it! Ready? Let’s go! 

Why is My AC Running Constantly?

From an air conditioner that is too small, to restricted airflow, several things could be making your air conditioner work overtime, including:

#1. Your AC Unit is Too Small

You hear your AC running and feel cool air coming from the vents, but the rest of your house feels like an oven. What gives?!

Your AC might not be the right size for your home. If you have a larger space, the unit must be big enough to cool that space. If it’s too small, the unit will constantly run in an attempt to maintain or reach the temperature that you have set.

This constant running of your AC unit can even reduce pressure in the evaporator or cooling coil until it freezes over. Therefore in some cases, an AC that runs constantly can be dangerous. The freezing of the coil can cause liquid refrigerant to flood back into the AC unit’s compressor and cause catastrophic damage.

#2. You Aren’t Maintaining Your Unit 

You should be changing your AC unit’s air filter every 30-60 days, and even more, if you have pets or are running the AC nonstop.

If you don’t, it could end up costing you more money, as dirty air filters can lead to poor airflow or freezing of the evaporator coil. It can significantly reduce your unit’s lifespan, too.

Remember, the cost to replace the air filter and get your unit maintained is minimal compared to the price of replacing the coil or the entire unit.

#3. Airflow Could be Restricted 

There are several reasons why the airflow coming from your unit may be restricted. Something could be wrong with the blower motor, or something could be blocking it.

Here are some signs that this could be the problem:

• The air from your vents is cool, but airflow is weak.
• The air filter is dirty.
• The ducts in your home could be closed or blocked.
• The ductwork in your home is damaged or improperly sized.
• The evaporator coil in your unit may be frozen.
• The motor in your unit could be bad.

#4. Refrigerant Leaks

When your AC doesn’t have enough refrigerant, your AC will run all the time, trying to make up for the difference. The refrigerant should never run out or need topping off. The only time this may be necessary is when there is a leak.

You will know that there is a leak if there is icy buildup on the AC, your AC is hissing, or your home isn’t getting cooler.

If you do have a leak, call our pros at Super Heat & Air as soon as possible, as this can cause your AC unit to stop working completely.

#5. Your AC is Old and Needs to be Replaced 

An AC that receives proper annual maintenance will last about 15 years. After that, it is time for a replacement.

As it ages, your air conditioner will naturally have to work harder to keep you cool. But if your AC runs all the time, is over 10 years old, and needs regular repairs, it is just costing you more money.

AC Repairs and Replacements

If your AC is running constantly and you’ve changed your dirty air filter, you need to call our pros at Super Heat & Air for an inspection as soon as possible. We can determine what is causing the problem, from an undersized unit to a refrigerant leak, and will get it fixed fast!