Does Your Residential AC Seem To Be Running More Fequently? Potential Repair Issues To Consider

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Residential air conditioning systems get a real workout during the summer cooling season, especially in the hotter, more humid areas of the nation. While homeowners should expect their cooling systems to run more frequently during the hottest part of the summer, they will want to be alert for signs that the system's cycles are becoming too long or signs that the system is running continuously without cycling off. Homeowners who notice these issues can use the following information to learn about possible causes and the repairs that may be needed to address them. 

Housekeeping issues

If your cooling system has previously worked well and has just begun to run longer and longer cycles, the problem may be as simple as a clogged or dirty HVAC filter. Hot outdoor temperatures can cause the system to cycle on more frequently and create the need for more frequent filter changes. If the filter does not appear clogged or the problem is not solved by installing a fresh filter, homeowners should consider checking to see if their system's condenser or evaporator coils have become covered with grass clippings, fallen leaves, dirt, or debris. Homeowners who find that these areas are dirty may be able to restore proper function by spraying them clean with a garden hose or having their system professionally cleaned and inspected for damage. 

Relay switch issues

The blower assembly in your residential air conditioning system uses a relay switch to tell it when to cycle on and off. If the relay switch fails, such as becoming stuck in the on position, electricity will continue to flow through the relay switch and supply power to keep the blower running. Homeowners who suddenly notice that their HVAC fans are blowing constantly without shutting down should immediately suspect a faulty relay switch and arrange for professional repairs. 

Refrigerant level issues

Air conditioning systems that have falling refrigerant levels due to the development of a leak in the system may also suddenly begin to experience abnormally long run cycles. Even a tiny pinhole leak can create enough coolant loss over time to force an air conditioning system to attempt to compensate for the decreased amount of coolant by forcing the system to run longer or more often than it should. 

Failing capacitor issues

If the AC fan continues to blow but no cold air is coming from the vents, the problem could also be related to a faulty capacitor. Contacting a reputable air conditioning system repair service is the best way to correctly diagnose a faulty capacitor or any other repair issue and ensure that your system is repaired as quickly as possible. 

For more information about AC repair, contact a local HVAC technician.


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