Summers get brutally hot in Columbia, Connecticut. That means when your air conditioner won’t shut off, cool evenly, or respond to the thermostat setting, things go downhill fast. Since one of the most common causes involves the temperature sensor, you might be asking, “How do I know if my AC sensor is bad?”
You’re in the right place for pro tips from SM Mechanical Services LLC. Below is what to look for in air conditioning sensors and when to call for AC repair services in Columbia, CT.
How Can a Temperature Sensor Malfunction?
Why does your air conditioner use a temperature sensor? The device measures air temperatures near the evaporator coil. The result will tell the unit’s control board when to kick on another cooling cycle or turn off.
Is the sensor dirty, damaged, or out of place? If it can’t send the right signal, the system might run too long or not turn on at all. Sensor calibration issues may make your air conditioner respond at the wrong times, creating:
- Uneven temperatures
- Higher energy bills
- Extra wear on your cooling equipment
Simply fixing the sensor can restore proper timing and help your system stay efficient during the hottest months.
Signs Your AC Temperature Sensor Is Faulty in Columbia, CT
So, how do I know if my AC sensor is bad? Typically, a faulty sensor causes cooling problems that seem random. If you pay attention, you’ll notice a pattern.
Start with these six signs of a faulty sensor:
Your Thermostat Reads the Wrong Temperature
The main problem is that a faulty sensor leads to inaccurate temperature readings. Your thermostat might show 72 degrees, so the air conditioner shuts off, but the room still feels warm. Replacing the sensor restores proper function and keeps your living space consistently comfortable.
Your Air Conditioning Turns On and Off Too Often
Irregular cooling cycles from bad sensor signals are another reason to get repairs. Does your cooling system start and stop every few minutes but not cool properly? These short bursts waste energy and wear out parts, so replacing the sensor not only makes cooling efficient but also helps the system last longer.
Your Thermostat Stops Responding
A thermostat sensor malfunction may also mean that your air conditioner ignores any setting changes you make. The system doesn’t respond or stays stuck, which directly affects indoor comfort. Replacing the sensor streamlines communication between the thermostat and the system so that it reacts to real-time conditions.
Your Cooling Unit Runs Too Long and Spikes Your Bill
A faulty AC sensor might keep your system running after your home reaches the set temperature. The longer it runs, the more energy it uses and the more wear it puts on its components. Replacing the sensor shuts things off on time and keeps utility costs in line.
Your HVAC System Fails a Test
Professional HVAC diagnostic testing pinpoints sensor issues like delays or incorrect readings. The test will highlight poor system performance and confirm the sensor is failing. Afterward, your system will respond to actual temperature changes as it was designed to do.
Your Sensor Moves Out of Position
Sensor calibration issues often happen when the part slips away from the evaporator coil. Once it’s out of place, it reads the wrong air temperature. Sometimes, the fix is as simple as having your technician reposition the sensor so that it accurately reads the room conditions.
What Can You Do About a Faulty Temperature Sensor?
Still asking, “How do I know if my AC sensor is bad? If you’ve noticed inconsistent cooling, short cycling, or thermostat issues, our technicians in Columbia, CT, will do the following:
- Turn off power at the electrical panel to work safely around internal components.
- Open the access panel to locate the temperature sensor near the evaporator coil.
- Inspect the sensor to see if it looks bent, loose, or out of position.
- Gently reposition the sensor and secure it.
- Restore power and test that the cooling cycle runs normally.
It’s as easy as that!
What To Do If Your AC Still Isn’t Working in Columbia, Connecticut
How do I know if my AC sensor is bad? There’s no need to wait to find out or let problems linger. Contact our licensed HVAC technician to test, recalibrate, or replace the sensor.
For reliable HVAC service and expert diagnostics, contact SM Mechanical Services LLC today! You can also check out our blog on resetting an air conditioner, which is a normal step after a sensor adjustment or inspection.