Can an Air Conditioner Run Too Long?

If you’re wondering whether an air conditioner can run for too long, the answer is yes, so we at TSR want to outline some potential causes for this issue and advise you on what steps you can take to stop it. An AC system that constantly runs can be extremely damaging to your electricity bill. So, what are the potential causes of an AC system running too long?

1. An incorrect AC unit

If you have the wrong sized AC unit for your space – for example, if it is too big or too small – this can affect the workings of your AC unit. If it’s too small, your AC will not be cooling your home correctly and could potentially cause the evaporator coil to freeze due to its limited size and ultimately damage the unit if left unchecked. We would strongly recommend that you contact an HVAC professional to calculate the efficiency of your AC unit in relation to the size and layout of your home.

2. Filter issues

Dirt and other forms of debris can sometimes clog your AC filter and prevent it from operating correctly. Also, your filters can be too restrictive for your unit from the outset – for example, one that is designed to remove allergens and pollen – and this can also cause problems with the air filtering through. To prevent this, you should contact an HVAC professional to service your filters or recommend a filter that better suits your AC unit.

3. Evaporator coil issues

Like the AC filters, the evaporator coils can also become dirty and may just need a clean to get your AC unit working correctly again. Other issues with the evaporator coil can be caused by the size of the unit, as mentioned earlier, and as a result of this may start to freeze. To solve this, it is best to have an HVAC professional diagnose the issue and solve it for you.

4. Fan and motor issues

Your AC unit can lose its efficiency as a result of a faulty blower motor which may not be producing enough air for your AC. Your fan may also be running at an incorrect speed for your unit, so we would recommend adjusting the speed of your fan or calling an HVAC professional if the issue persists.

5. Faulty thermostat

A faulty thermostat can prevent your AC from recognizing that the desired temperature has been reached, and so it will continue to run. It may be worth checking on your thermostat and replacing it if it appears faulty.

Here at TSR, our HVAC experts are happy to carry out all of the above checks for you as part of our home and commercial air conditioning maintenance services! Our commitment to 24-hour service ensures that your problem will be dealt with and resolved quickly and efficiently. Contact us directly for HVAC services across Queensland.