When your AC system is running inefficiently, you’re wasting energy and contributing to unnecessary wear and tear. Here are signs you should watch out for that indicate your air conditioner isn’t working as efficiently as it could.
Your System is Short-Cycling
Have you noticed your AC system turning on briefly, turning off, and then repeating this cycle over and over? This is short cycling.
Typically, the period when your air conditioner is activated to run until the temperature is reached and the system turns off is called a “cycle.” Regular cycles typically last somewhere around 20 minutes (could be shorter, could be longer). When your AC is short cycling, it will run for a very brief period of time over and over, while never quite achieving the comfort goal. It’s a frustrating situation to be in as it can raise your bills, put a strain on your HVAC system, and leave you feeling uncomfortable. This is definitely a sign of an inefficient system and could be caused by a refrigerant leak, dirty air filter, or other more problematic causes.
You’re Not Cool Enough
While you may not always know how often your system is turning on or off, you will know when it’s not keeping you cool enough.
If your system is pushing air into your home, but it doesn’t feel cool, your AC isn’t working as optimally as it should. The culprit could be due to a low level of refrigerant in your HVAC system. An experienced HVAC technician can test your system and add new refrigerant to restore your air conditioner’s cooling power and get you back to having an efficient system.
The Temperature in Your Home isn’t Consistent
With the right system for the size and layout of your home, your AC will cool your home evenly, all the time. However, if you notice the temperature throughout your home isn’t consistent, with some areas noticeably hotter or cooler than others, it’s a sign of inefficiency. This could caused by inefficient airflow in your ducts, a malfunctioning compressor, or a dirty filter.
You Have Thermostat Troubles
Another sign of an inefficient AC system? Dealing with thermostat troubles. If you feel like the temperature range in your home doesn’t line up with what you’ve set on your thermostat, it could be a problem with the sensor. When the sensor isn’t working properly, it could be telling your system to maintain a different temperature than what you’ve set it to.
Your System Breaks Down More Often
Every AC system will experience a little trouble now and then. But if you’re calling up professionals for repairs frequently and it still continues to malfunction, it’s time to take a closer look. Frequent repairs are not only hard on your wallet, but it’s a clear sign your AC isn’t functioning as efficiently as possible. This is typically a sign it’s time to invest in a new air conditioning unit, but it could be caused by a faulty component as well. When you call in a professional HVAC tech, they will discover and guide you on the best course of action – if your unit needs a little extra TLC or if it’s time to start planning for a replacement.
How AC Maintenance Can Improve Efficiency
Keeping up with regular maintenance is your best defense against an inefficient AC system. General maintenance, like changing out your filters and keeping your condenser coils clean, will ensure your system isn’t working harder than it has to and help you to avoid some of the signs listed above.
Regular maintenance by a professional can also help you avoid inefficiency issues as they will look over common trouble areas and identify repair needs before they become a problem. When you get a jump on repairs early, you’ll be able to keep costs low and protect your system from being overworked and damaged. When everything is working as it should, and there are no leaks, clogs, or other issues, your AC system can perform at optimal levels and has a greater chance of having a longer life span.
Comfort World will take care of your maintenance and repair needs to improve performance and extend your air conditioner’s life span.
Comfort World is Here for Your Air Conditioning Needs
To keep your AC in top-performing condition, replace your air filters every three months and schedule your AC system maintenance regularly. Comfort World will take care of your maintenance and repair needs to improve performance and extend your air conditioner’s life span.
And if you need other HVAC help, don’t worry, our team is equipped to handle any HVAC problem efficiently. Our team can provide dependable AC replacement, air duct repair, heating maintenance, and other HVAC services. We’ve been bringing comfort to the valley for over 30 years, so you can count on us to get the job done right. Our highly trained technicians in Scottsdale, Arizona, want to bring a little more comfort to your world!
