AC units can be frustrating, especially when you have cooling problems during summer’s hottest days. Your air conditioner might stop working right as outdoor temperatures climb, leaving you wondering what went wrong. A well-managed system should last 10-15 years, but extreme heat waves can cause unexpected failures.
Your air conditioning system works overtime as temperatures climb above 95°F. The outdoor unit doesn’t deal very well with releasing warm air into an already hot environment. On top of that, it works best when indoor and outdoor temperatures stay within 20 degrees of each other. This explains why your AC might act up during intense heat – these systems weren’t built to handle extreme temperature differences. Your unit can lose cooling power due to low refrigerant levels.
Common Signs Your AC Is Struggling in the Heat
You can save yourself from complete breakdowns and pricey repairs by spotting the early warning signs of an overtaxed air conditioning system. Your vents might show warm or weak airflow which usually means you have refrigerant leaks, failing compressors, or blocked ductwork.
Your AC should run quietly. Strange sounds like banging, rattling, screeching, or clicking usually mean you have loose components, worn-out bearings, or problems with electrical connections. Bad smells can tell you a lot too. Musty odors often mean mold is growing in your system. You should shut down your AC immediately if you smell burning – it could be an electrical problem.
Top Reasons Why Your AC Fails in Summer
Your air conditioning system faces intense pressure during summer, and it often breaks down right when you need it most. The heat brings several major problems that can affect your cooling system.
Refrigerant Leaks are one of the most common AC issues. Your refrigerant doesn’t get used up like fuel – it just keeps moving through a sealed system. The high temperatures can damage piping joints, especially in the evaporator coil where temperature changes are most dramatic. Systems that don’t have enough refrigerant can’t cool your home effectively and run longer cycles that drive up your electricity bills.
Dirty Condenser Coils can seriously affect how well your AC works. These coils release heat from your home into the outside air. The cooling process becomes restricted when dirt and debris build up on the coils. This makes your system work harder at higher temperatures and pressures. Your unit’s parts wear out faster and don’t last as long.
How to Prevent AC Breakdowns During Hot Weather
Your AC needs regular maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Schedule professional tune-ups early in spring before summer temperatures soar. These inspections help technicians spot problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
Clean air filters are significant for your system’s health. A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes your AC work harder than necessary. Check your filters monthly and replace them every 30-90 days. Pet owners and people living in dusty areas should change filters more often.
Conclusion
A properly serviced AC system creates a healthy and comfortable living environment during winter’s challenging months. Your A/C service in Fresno experts know that these maintenance practices will improve your home’s comfort level and reduce your monthly utility bills significantly.
Ready to experience the maximum comfort and efficiency for your HVAC needs? Contact your HVAC contractor in Fresno, Maximum Air today at (559) 222-0733 and let our expert team take care of all your heating and cooling requirements. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose Maximum Air for superior service, reliable solutions, and unmatched customer satisfaction. Call us now and discover why we are the trusted choice for HVAC services in Fresno.
