Can an Air Conditioner Overheat?
Do you need fast and reliable AC repairs? Contact Crew Heating & Cooling at 832-345-1696 for cost-efficient solutions.
Can an air conditioner overheat? Absolutely.
It’s important to understand what causes overheating and how to prevent it. This way, you can achieve maximum indoor comfort and energy efficiency.
AC repair experts in Humble explain everything you should know about HVAC maintenance. Consider the following information, then partner with a reliable technician for inspections and repairs.
Checking Your Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the solution inside your AC unit used to convert warm air into cool air. Your AC’s refrigerant levels should not decrease over time. If you notice a sudden drop in your refrigerant levels, you may have a leak somewhere in your system.
Refrigerant leaks can lead to your system overheating. It can also cause the following issues:
- Mold growth between internal components
- Frozen blower fans or outdoor units
- Drip pan overflow
- Water damage on your walls, carpet, and furniture
You can determine if a refrigerant leak is the source of your AC problems by monitoring a few signs. For example, white vapors coming from the unit indicate overheating.
Keeping Your Coils Clean
Keep your condenser and refrigerant coils clear of debris, pests, and other obstructions that may cause them to over heat. HVAC vacuums and non-abrasive rags can usually remove light dirt and vegetation from these surfaces.
It’s best to clean your coils once every few months for the best results. Consider hiring a professional — like those at Crew Heating & Cooling — if you don’t have the time or equipment to handle these responsibilities alone.
Choosing the Right Size HVAC for Your Home
An undersized HVAC system may overperform attempting to cool each room in your house. These overheating problems could also increase your monthly utility bills dramatically.
You can size your air conditioner according to the number of rooms in your home, the size of your air duct system, and how much sunlight your property receives.
Nearly all HVAC products come with energy efficiency ratings, called SEERs. These metrics can help you determine how much air your AC needs to produce to cool your home.
Replacing Your Air Filters
Can an air conditioner overheat because of a dirty air filter? It may surprise you how common this problem is among homeowners.
Dirty air filters can stress the motorized fans in your appliance used to cool the air in your ventilation systems. Consequently, they can overheat and shut down with little to no warning. Replace your AC filters regularly (once every three months) to avoid these problems.
New air filters can also prevent:
- Reduced indoor air quality
- Dirt, dander, and debris in your air ducts
- Allergens that may cause respiratory illnesses
- High utility expenses
Calibrating Your Thermostat
Setting your thermostat to extremely low temperatures can cause your system to overheat in just minutes. Many AC models cannot support settings that drop 20 degrees or more below outdoor temperature levels.
Manufacturers typically include recommended thermostat settings for each product. Comply with these recommendations to get the longest life out of your appliance.
You could also invest in a smart thermostat installation to simplify your indoor temperature control. These Wi-Fi compatible products will monitor changing weather conditions and adjust accordingly for maximum performance. They will also alert you if they detect signs of overheating or other common problems.
Reducing Obstructions Near the Fan
Fans clogged with dust will overheat. Turn off your AC unit and inspect these internal components for signs of wear or debris.
You can wipe away most harmful elements with warm water and a sponge. However, excessive damage may necessitate new installations or replacement parts. An experienced HVAC technician can determine which solution is best for your appliance after a thorough consultation.
Contact a Professional HVAC Technician Today
Prevent AC overheating without stress. At Crew Heating & Cooling, we make it easy to schedule professional installations and repairs online or over the phone. No matter how challenging your request may seem, we promise to deliver excellent results with superior-grade AC materials.
Our team can help you identify the causes of low airflow in your system. This way, you can avoid damage that results in expensive restorations down the line. Feel free to ask us any questions you have about upkeep and preventive care while we are on your property.
Additionally, enjoy upfront pricing and zero hidden fees when you partner with us for AC maintenance.
Can an air conditioner overheat? Find out more with Crew Heating & Cooling in Humble, TX. Call 832-345-1696.
