If you’ve noticed your air conditioner running nonstop during the day or night, you’re not alone. In Central Oregon, rising summer temperatures can put extra stress on cooling systems. But if your AC is constantly running, even when it doesn’t seem necessary, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that impacts performance, comfort, and your utility bills.
While it’s normal for an air conditioner to work harder on especially hot days, it shouldn’t be running around the clock. Let’s break down the most common reasons for this and what you can do to fix it.
Common Culprits Behind Your AC Constantly Running
Several factors can cause your air conditioner to run continuously without effectively cooling your home:
Dirty Air Filters
This is perhaps the most common and easily remedied problem. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to your AC’s indoor unit. When airflow is reduced, the system struggles to pull in enough air to cool efficiently, forcing it to run longer and harder to meet the thermostat setting. Regular filter changes are crucial.
Dirty Evaporator or Condenser Coils
Over time, the indoor evaporator coil can become coated with dirt and grime, hindering its ability to absorb heat from your home’s air. Similarly, the outdoor condenser coil can get dirty, preventing it from effectively releasing heat to the outside. Both scenarios drastically reduce efficiency. The result? Your AC constantly running to compensate.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system, responsible for absorbing and releasing heat. If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak, it won’t be able to cool effectively. The compressor will run continuously trying to reach the desired temperature, but it will never quite get there without the proper refrigerant charge.
Thermostat Malfunctions
Your thermostat acts as the brain of your HVAC system. If it isn’t reading the temperature correctly or has faulty wiring, it may tell your AC to run nonstop. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a thermostat placed in direct sunlight or too close to an appliance that emits heat, skewing the temperature readings.
Modern thermostats, especially smart models, offer greater precision and adaptability. If you’re experiencing frequent AC issues, upgrading your thermostat may be part of the solution.
Improper Sizing
An air conditioner that is too small for your home’s square footage or heat load will struggle to keep up on hot days. It will run continuously but may never achieve the desired temperature, leading to high bills and limited comfort. Conversely, an oversized unit might cycle on and off too frequently, which is also inefficient and hard on the system.
Airflow Restrictions/Leaky Ducts
Beyond dirty filters, blockages in your ductwork or leaky ducts can prevent conditioned air from reaching its intended destination. If cold air is escaping into your attic or crawl space, your AC will keep running to try to cool rooms that aren’t receiving enough airflow. This can lead to uneven cooling, hot spots, and a system that never gets the signal to shut off because it’s constantly trying to reach your desired temperature.
The Real Impact Beyond High Bills
An AC constantly running has consequences far beyond discomfort. It can also cause…
Increased Energy Costs
This is often the first and most noticeable impact. A system working overtime consumes significantly more electricity, leading to unexpectedly high utility statements.
Reduced Comfort
Despite the constant operation, your home may feel inconsistently cooled, with hot and cold spots, or simply never reach a truly comfortable temperature.
Accelerated Wear and Tear
Continuous operation puts immense strain on the compressor and other vital components. This leads to premature breakdown, requiring more frequent and costly repairs, or even an early system replacement.
Compromised Indoor Air Quality
A system that isn’t working correctly may not be effectively filtering your air, potentially leading to issues with dust, allergens, or humidity.
Get Your AC Running Right With Bend Heating
We understand the unique demands of Central Oregon’s high-desert climate. If your AC is constantly running, it’s time to have one of our experienced technicians take a look. We’ll start with a thorough inspection, identify the root cause of the issue, and provide a clear, straightforward repair plan. Whether your system needs a cleaning, a new filter, thermostat adjustment, or more complex repair, we’re here to help you get the most out of your cooling investment.
Don’t wait for a complete breakdown. Schedule a service call and keep your home cool, efficient, and comfortable.