Why Won’t My AC Reach the Temperature I Set?
Summer weather can get pretty extreme in the Carolinas! When it’s extra hot outside (especially during a heat wave), it’s hard for air conditioners to keep up. They work harder and run longer just trying to reach the temperature you set, but they’re fighting a LOT of heat. In general, air conditioners can cool your home between 15-20 degrees cooler than the outdoor temperature. So, if it’s a heat wave and we’re reaching 95 degrees in the afternoon, your AC will probably only get as cool as 75 degrees. It doesn’t mean your AC is broken!
Is It Bad to Run the AC Constantly in the Summer?
No! Your air conditioner is meant to run in the summer. It’s honestly more efficient for it to keep running instead of working in on-off cycles. The only thing you may wanna be careful of is setting the temperature too low. Setting your thermostat to a low temperature won’t cool your home any better or any faster, but it does run the risk of freezing your AC’s coil.
How to Tell if My AC Is Actually Broken
If you see ice on your system, that’s a sign something isn’t right! It could be anything from low refrigerant to a faulty metering device. The best thing to do is turn off your AC to let it thaw, and call Morris-Jenkins!
Learn more about what it means when your air conditioner has ice on it here: Ice or Frost on Your HVAC Unit | Morris-Jenkins
Other signs your AC likely needs repairs are things like:
- Warm air coming from the vents in your home
- No air blowing from the vents in your home
- An AC that won’t turn on
- The air conditioner keeps tripping a breaker
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s time to give us a call (or text)! We get there faster, which means your family won’t be stuck in the heat.
The Easiest Thing You Can Check
Before you call Morris-Jenkins out for an air conditioner that’s not cooling, there’s one easy thing you can check! When was the last time you changed your air filters? They should be changed every 30-60 days. If your filters are dirty and clogged up, it makes it hard for your air conditioner to breathe, meaning it has to work harder to even try to run normally. Then if you add the summer heat, it’s going to really struggle to work! Make sure your filters have been changed recently to see if that helps your air conditioner. If not, give us a call!
When You Need Help with Your AC, Call Morris-Jenkins!
One of the best things you can do to make sure your home stays cool all summer is to schedule your AC maintenance! It’s a good opportunity for your technician to make sure everything’s in great shape. Even though your home likely won’t reach low temperatures during a heat wave, we can make sure your family stays comfortable and safe at home all summer long! And if you ever have a problem with your air conditioner, we’re just a call or text away. We can usually get there the same day you call, so you’ll have cool air at your house tonight!