Can My Home’s AC Unit Overheat?
April 7, 2023
As a homeowner, it can be incredibly frustrating and worrying when your home’s air conditioner is suddenly not working as expected. During the spring and summer months when temperatures outdoors and indoors can soar, an AC unit that has overheated becomes a serious cause for concern. But what causes the unit to overheat in the first place and how can you prevent it from happening, so you have cool, refreshing air in your home? This blog post will answer these questions by exploring common reasons why AC units overheat and offering advice on addressing the issues before they present a problem to your comfort level or wallet.
What Can Cause a Home’s AC Unit to Overheat?
An overheating air conditioning unit can leave you sweating and uncomfortable during the hottest months of the year. There are several factors that can cause a home’s AC unit to overheat, including:
- Dirty air filter
- Low refrigerant levels
- Malfunctioning compressor
- Blockages in the condenser coils
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to even bigger problems down the road, so it’s important to address an overheating air conditioning unit as soon as possible. By taking preventative measures, such as regularly cleaning your air filter and scheduling routine maintenance checks, you can keep your home cool and comfortable throughout the warmer months.
Tips for Preventing Your Home’s AC from Overheating
Nobody wants their home’s AC unit to overheat during a hot day. Luckily, there are strategies that can be put in place to prevent this from happening, such as:
- Clean AC Unit – Keep the AC unit clean to ensure proper airflow. This can be done by cleaning the filter regularly and removing any debris around the unit.
- Proper Installation – Proper installation is key to preventing overheating. Make sure the unit is installed in a location that is well-ventilated and not overcrowded with other items.
- Regular Maintenance – It is important to schedule regular maintenance check-ups with a professional to catch any potential issues before they turn into major problems.
By following these strategies, you can keep your AC unit running smoothly and prevent overheating.
Signs Your Home’s AC Unit Needs Repairs
Unfortunately, over time, air conditioning units can become worn down or damaged, resulting in a complete breakdown. Understanding the signs of a failing AC unit can prevent such a nightmare scenario. The following are signs that your AC unit needs to be repaired:
- Strange sounds or odors begin coming from your AC unit.
- Your AC unit struggles to keep your home at a consistent temperature.
- Your energy bill keeps going up each month for unexplained reasons.
What to Do When Your AC Unit Is Overheating
If you notice that your home’s AC unit is starting to overheat, there are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and possibly avoid costly repairs:
- First, turn off your AC unit to give it a chance to cool down.
- Next, check your air filters for dirt and debris and replace them if necessary.
- Finally, make sure that there is proper airflow both inside and outside the unit.
If these steps don’t work, it’s time to call in a professional to diagnose the problem. Don’t suffer through the summer heat, take action to keep your AC unit running efficiently.
For more information about what to do if your home’s AC unit starts overheating, including AC maintenance and repair options in Boston, call Winters Home Services at 617-221-5899 or get in touch with us online today. When you contact us, ask about our HVAC maintenance plans and specials!