Warmer weather is approaching, and our air conditioners are about to become our best friends once again. Like many Elk Grove homeowners, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Is it okay to run my air conditioner unit constantly?”
When sweltering temperatures hit, it’s normal to hear your air conditioner unit running more than that it would on an average day. However, if you feel like your AC is constantly running on a daily basis, it may suggest a deeper issue.
How Long Should My AC Run at a Time?
Suppose it’s a mild day with a light breeze outside. In that case, ideally, your air conditioner should run for about 15-20 minutes at a time. Afterward, the indoor temperature should have reached the selected setting, and the unit should turn itself off.
On the flip side, if your average cooling cycle lasts anywhere from 30 minutes and beyond, there’s a good chance that something is off within the cooling system. An AC unit that runs for an excessive amount of time daily can also lead to costly electric bills and an overworked system prone to breakdowns. You should schedule a service to make sure an important part doesn't need to be repaired.
Why Is My AC Running Constantly?
Some energy-efficient AC units are actually equipped to run for extended periods of time. Although, if you’ve noticed your AC running past the recommended 20 minutes and it can’t seem to reach your desired temperature setting, there could be several reasons why.
- Your AC Is Too Small: When you install a brand new air conditioner in your home, it’s crucial to select the appropriate size for your home’s square footage. You’ll want to avoid air conditioning units that are too small or excessively large. If the AC is too small, you’re bound to run into inefficient cooling issues. Too small of an AC will simply not be able to keep up with the cooling demands of a larger home.
- Your AC Is Old: Unfortunately, AC units do not have infinite lifespans. As your air conditioner ages, specifically past 12 years, several system components may lose their efficiency. An old AC will struggle to keep up with the cooling needs of your home. While you may be hesitant to part ways with your old AC, a new replacement can bring about many benefits. A new AC will cool your home in a shorter time and conserve energy, helping bring down those skyrocketing electric bills. When you’re ready to upgrade your AC, Mac's Plumbing, Heating & Air can ensure a smooth installation. Our cooling experts are highly trained in all aspects of air conditioning installation and repair. When you choose Mac's Plumbing, Heating & Air, you can trust that the comfort of your home will be restored quickly.
- Dirty Filters: Clogged air filters can bring about a whole slew of issues, including inefficient cooling. When your air filters are clogged, your system is forced to work harder to keep your home at the desired temperature. Not to mention, clogged air filters can also impact the quality of the air you breathe—yikes! We recommend setting an alert on your cell phone or marking your calendar to remind yourself to swap those filters every month.
- Excess Heat Sources: Whether you’re cooking a pie in the oven, drying a load of laundry, or opening the curtains for some sunlight, excess heat can sneak into your home. This can force your cooling system to work harder to keep up with the desired internal temperature. On those sizzling summer days, try to keep your home as cool as possible by cooking and running laundry at night.
Cooling Services in Elk Grove
Mac's Plumbing, Heating & Air is the team that can’t be beat for all your home’s cooling needs. Call us today at (916) 794-8884 for more information on our exceptional workmanship and stellar customer service.