Should HVAC Run All the Time: Is it Normal?

As temperatures reach record highs over the summer months, having an air conditioning system that works reliably and effectively is more critical than ever. But should HVAC run all the time in your home?

Sometimes, it is normal for your AC unit to run constantly. However, an HVAC unit continuously running can also be a cause for concern. And in those rare cases, you must have a reliable option for air conditioning repair in Claremont to guide you in ensuring your AC unit is performing optimally.

When to Run Your AC Unit 

So, when is it okay for your AC unit to constantly run? The hotter it is outdoors, the more likely it will be for your air conditioner to run. Under these conditions, longer run times are acceptable. If your AC pumps cool air that long, it indicates your cooling system is efficient. 

You can also keep your HVAC unit working continuously to create a more even cooling distribution throughout your home. One side benefit of this strategy is that less frequent starts and stops of the fan can help extend your AC unit’s lifespan. So, should HVAC run all the time in your home? —Well, it depends on the situation.

Signs There Are Issues with Your AC 

However, there are times a constantly running AC unit can be indicative of a problem. There are some tell-tale signs that all may not be well with your HVAC system. 

One indicator may be that your AC never shuts off, which leads to sky-high energy bills. Probably the easiest sign to notice is if the temperature in your house does not change even when adjusting your thermostat. 

If you notice one or more of these problems, you must seek a reliable option for air conditioning repair in Claremont. A professional can inspect your unit and help provide repair recommendations.

Causes of a Running HVAC Unit 

Many common reasons your cooling system may stop blowing cold air include blocked airflow, dirty evaporator condenser coils, or a refrigerant leak.

Blocked Air Flow 

For air to flow, it must be allowed to breathe, and your cooling system operates no differently. If anything impedes the airflow in your HVAC system, your cooling system will struggle to function. One of the detrimental results of that inability to breathe is that your unit will run non-stop. 

Things to observe that are restrictive to airflow in your air conditioner include:

• dirty air filters
• weakened motors
• leaking ductwork
• blocked vents

Evaporator Coils are Dirty 

Not to get too technical, but your cooling system refrigerant navigates the coils in your AC unit, absorbing heat from your home's air. When these coils encounter no blockages, this process works seamlessly, and you get cool air.

However, the more muck that is allowed to build up over time on the HVAC system's coils, the harder heat absorption becomes for the refrigerant. The layers of grime impose a blockade, and while your HVAC system keeps running, it does not expel cold air.

Refrigerant Leak 

Without enough refrigerant in your cooling system, your AC unit will constantly run, attempting to compensate for the difference. You should never run out of refrigerant or ever need to refill it. The only time you'll need to replace refrigerant in your system is when there is a leak. 

The most common ways to discover such a leak is by observing the following: if there is a buildup of ice on your air conditioner, your house is not cooling, or your system makes a noticeable hissing sound. If you encounter a leak, you must get it repaired as quickly as possible.

HVAC Maintenance is a Phone Call Away 

At the beginning of this blog, we asked should HVAC run all the time in your home. The short answer is that if your home feels mild and comfortable during those sweltering summer months, then you have a healthy cooling system. However, sometimes an AC unit that never shuts off can indicate something is wrong. 

But fear not — there is a solution. If you feel your current unit is not working optimally and requires air conditioning repair in Claremont, CA, or if you need advice on installing HVAC units, contact Inland Empire Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating today at (951) 336-1718.

Our team is happy to schedule an appointment for HVAC maintenance, repair, or replacement. HVAC emergencies are more frequent than you think —that is why our line is open 24/7 for emergency calls.