Summer is loved by many because of fun activities like swimming and spending time outdoors. But when it gets boiling, even the best part of summer can feel too much. Sometimes, though, the heat is too much for air conditioners, and your AC can’t keep up on hot days.
Let’s find out why your air conditioner cannot keep up on hot days and find some easy fixes as well.
7 Top Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling Like It Should
When scorching outside, you count on your home as a calm retreat. But if your AC struggles to keep up, it can ruin your relaxation. Are you curious about why your AC might be struggling?
Here are seven common reasons, straight from HVAC experts at The Bee Heat and AC:
1- Improper Sizing
One common reason for an air conditioner’s inefficiency is when it’s undersized for the space it’s meant to cool.
When the unit’s cooling capacity doesn’t match the cooling load of the area, it can’t effectively maintain a comfortable temperature. This results in the system running continuously without achieving the desired cooling effect.
2- Dirty Air Filters
Air filters are necessary to stop dust, dirt, and other particles from flowing into the air.
The airflow is impeded when these filters fill with junk, which lowers the system’s effectiveness in cooling the air. The extra pressure it puts on the air conditioner comes from its struggle to force air through the clogged filters.
3- Leaky Ducts
Ductwork is necessary for cooled air to be distributed throughout the house. However, duct leaks or gaps may allow cooled air to escape before it reaches its target.
It reduces performance and efficiency since the air conditioner must work harder to compensate for the reduced cooling capacity.
4- Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is the material that transfers heat from inside air to the exterior.
The efficacy of cooling is reduced when low refrigerant levels limit the air conditioner’s ability to effectively remove heat from the interior space. It frequently signals a refrigerant line leak, which needs to be found and fixed by a specialist.
5- Blocked Condenser Unit
The condenser unit, which is positioned outside the residence, is responsible for releasing heat received from the inside air.
Heat transfer is hindered when dirt, leaves, or other plants accumulate on the condenser coils, making it easier for the air conditioner to release heat efficiently.
6- Poor Insulation
Increased heat transfer between the indoor and exterior environments can be caused by inadequate insulation in a property.
Because the air conditioner has to work harder to counteract the heat buildup, it has to operate with a higher cooling load.
Adequate insulation lessens the strain on the air conditioning system and contributes to maintaining a constant interior temperature.
7- Thermostat Issues
Unreliable temperatures and inefficient air conditioning system operation can result from a broken thermostat.
An uncomfortable and energy-wasting situation could arise from the air conditioner running too long or too little if the thermostat cannot detect and control the inside temperature appropriately.
Replacing or calibrating the thermostat could be necessary to resolve these issues.
How to Fix AC Not Keeping Up on Hot Days? 7 Tips
When your air conditioner can’t handle the heat, it’s time to take action. The following seven easy steps can assist your air conditioner in keeping your house cool on the warmest days:
1- Ensure Proper Sizing
Your air conditioner may be too small for your room if it struggles on hot days.
Upgrading to a suitably sized unit can greatly enhance cooling performance and efficiency.
2- Replace Dirty Air Filters
Dirty air filters reduce airflow, reducing the efficacy of your air conditioner.
As needed, usually once every three months, check and replace the filters to preserve optimal airflow and performance.
This simple maintenance procedure can improve both cooling capacity and interior air quality.
Read: How to clean the dirty air filters.
3- Seal Leaky Ducts
The efficiency of your cooling system is reduced when cooled air leaks from your ductwork and escapes before it reaches your living areas.
Fix duct leaks with foil tape or mastic sealant to minimise air loss and increase cooling performance. Expert duct sealing and inspection services can facilitate effective leak detection and repair.
4- Recharge Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels may impact your air conditioner’s ability to cool down. Rechargeable refrigerant levels guarantee effective operation and restore cooling performance.
5- Clean Condenser Unit
The debris collection on the outdoor condenser unit may block heat transfer and airflow, lowering cooling effectiveness.
Keep the area around the condenser coils clean regularly to reduce dirt, leaves, and other debris. This easy maintenance procedure boosts overall cooling performance and improves heat loss.
6- Improve Insulation
Your air conditioner may have to work harder due to increased heat input and loss caused by inadequate insulation. Improve your house’s ductwork, attic, and wall insulation to reduce heat transfer and increase energy efficiency.
7- Calibrate Thermostat
Verify that your thermostat is accurately sensing and adjusting the temperature within your house. It should be calibrated correctly and kept from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Consider replacing your old thermostat with a programmable or smart one to improve temperature management and save energy.
3 Bonus Tips to Keep Your Home Cool During Hot Summer
Your air conditioner might be working hard to beat the heat, but these tips can help lighten its load and keep your home cool:
1- Close Blinds and Curtains
Keep the sun’s heat out by closing blinds and curtains, especially on windows facing east in the morning and west in the afternoon. It reduces the extra warmth entering your home.
2- Run Major Appliances Later
Save chores like laundry and dishwashing for cooler evenings. Appliances like ovens and dryers can heat your home, so it’s best to use them when it’s cooler outside.
3- Consider Installing a Ductless Mini Split
Ductless Mini Splits are versatile systems that cool and heat homes without needing ductwork like central air. They are more efficient and cost-effective than baseboard heaters or room AC units.
You can contact experts at The Bee Heat and AC for heat pump installation and maintenance services. Just call us, and we will do everything for you.
People Also Ask!
Why is my air conditioner struggling to keep my home cool during hot days?
High temperatures may overload your air conditioner, making it exert more effort to sustain a pleasant interior temperature.
What can I do if my air conditioner isn’t keeping up with the heat?
Check for dirty air filters, ensure proper insulation, and consider scheduling maintenance to address any issues affecting your AC’s performance.
Will closing blinds and curtains help my AC cool my home better during hot days?
Yes, closing blinds and curtains can prevent solar heat gain, reduce the workload on your air conditioner, and help maintain a cooler indoor environment.
