Can AC units overheat? The source of your cooling comfort during those sweltering summers can indeed get too hot under the collar.
As the go-to HVAC contractor in Glastonbury, CT, we at SM Mechanical Services have seen and addressed our fair share of faulty indoor cooling. Keep reading as we share crucial details on the main culprits and how to address them.
Why the Temperatures Rise in Glastonbury, CT
Air conditioning systems are an intricate network of components that work in tandem to chill your spaces. That’s why overheating can stem from various culprits. The most common ones in Glastonbury include:
Blocked Air Filters
Air filters catch dust, mold spores, pollen, and other airborne nuisances to protect sensitive components and keep indoor air clean. As they accumulate debris over time, the flow of air becomes significantly restricted.
Think of it as trying to breathe through a straw; pulling air through requires a lot more effort and energy. The whole AC unit will try to compensate for this lack of air by working overtime, generating excessive heat in the process.
Why wait until your system reaches the boiling point? Refresh the filters every 90 days or sooner if you have pets or suffer from allergies. Your owner’s manual can offer guidance on the best practices for your model.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Condenser coils play a crucial role in your AC’s cooling cycle by releasing the heat absorbed from your home into the outside air. Trouble brews when they collect dirt, leaves, and other environmental debris.
With less surface area exposed to air, the component’s ability to dissipate heat efficiently is significantly hindered. The AC works harder, performance drops, and comfort levels plummet.
Avoid this headache by refreshing your coils with a soft-bristle brush and a solution of dish detergent and water. Take care not to scratch the fins, and let the parts dry completely before turning your AC back on.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Can AC units overheat from refrigerant issues? This special fluid absorbs heat from your interiors to reach the desired level of cooling. Since it exists in a separate sealed system, you don’t need to replace it or top it off regularly — unless you have a leak.
Low levels will make your AC run longer, spike usage costs, and overheat. Smelling something faintly sweet or hearing a hissing noise from the unit could also indicate a leak.
Don’t play the guessing game and risk further damage or inefficiency. This complex problem requires a professional touch.
Wrong AC Sizing
Size matters when it comes to air conditioning. A unit that’s too small will run non-stop to cool your space, only to fall short and ramp up your bills while undergoing undue stress.
Do your interiors feel sufficiently cool but uncomfortably muggy? When you own an excessively large unit, it will cool too quickly without properly dehumidifying your Glastonbury home.
Proper sizing is like picking out the perfect pair of shoes for a marathon; it has to fit just right to provide comfort and prevent strain.
No Shade Under the Glastonbury Heat
When technicians install the outdoor part of your unit, location is key. Outfitting it in a spot that faces direct sunlight throughout the day can significantly increase heat retention.
Glastonbury’s summers can push your AC to its limits. If you recently had a tree or another structure near the outdoor component, consider creating a new source of protection. Installing a canopy or using a landscape feature can work wonders.
Remember to trim the vegetation when it grows too close. You don’t want to impede airflow and contribute to the very problem you wish to avoid.
Subpar AC Maintenance
Can AC units overheat when you forget to schedule regular tune-ups? Absolutely. Just as your car needs its oil changed occasionally, your AC requires TLC to keep running without a hitch.
We don’t recommend handling this task yourself because it involves a fair bit of work and technical know-how to perform properly. Trained technicians will:
- Change the air filters
- Tighten electrical components
- Flush out the drain lines
- Calibrate the thermostat
- Clean the coils
- Inspect gas burners when present
- Refresh the ductwork
- Lubricate all moving parts
- And more
Aim for at least annual professional visits or more if your system operates continuously in extreme conditions. A little proactive care now lengthens your unit’s lifespan and can save you a lot down the road.
Accumulated Wear
A well-maintained AC unit will properly cool your home for a long time, but it’s not invincible. If yours exceeds the average lifespan — usually around 15 to 20 years — its efficiency may wane as components naturally wear out.
Aging parts like the compressor, fan motors, and capacitors struggle to perform as they once did and overheat easily. It might seem cost-efficient to keep patching up an old unit, but you’re better off upgrading to an energy-efficient model in the long run.
The Domino Effect
When left unchecked, an overheating AC unit can kickstart a cascade of problems that impact many internal components. The following are of the most vulnerable parts:
- Capacitor: This electrical component helps start the compressor and fans. High temperatures degrade its capability and result in failed startups.
- Fans: Some fans in the system help direct air across condenser coils to dissipate heat. They heat up faster when clogged with dust, which warps the blades or burns out the motors.
- Compressor: Compressors are one of the most expensive parts to replace, so it’s in your best interest to keep it healthy.
Your Go-To AC Experts in Glastonbury, CT
Can AC units overheat? Yes, but the right care can nip this issue in the bud before it progresses. That’s where SM Mechanical Services comes in.
Dial (860) 296-5100 to get further answers to these and any other burning questions you might have about your AC unit. You can also read more of our blog on calculating HVAC unit costs.