As the summer months wind down, it’s easy to think your air conditioner has made it through the toughest part of the year. However, late summer heat waves can place an additional strain on your system, causing it to overheat. Your AC can become overwhelmed and risk breaking down right when you need it the most.
In this post, we’ll explain why air conditioners are prone to overheating at the end of summer, how you can prevent this from happening, and why it’s crucial to act fast with AC repair in Bergen County, NJ if you suspect any issues.
Signs Your AC Is Overheating
- Warm air from vents: If your AC is running but blowing warm air, it may be struggling to keep up with the cooling demand.
- Frequent cycling: If your system is cycling on and off frequently, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Overheating can cause the system to shut down as a protective measure.
- Unusual noises: Grinding, buzzing, or rattling noises could indicate a problem with the motor or other mechanical parts, often related to overheating.
- Unusually high energy bills: If your energy bills spike unexpectedly, it could be a sign that your AC is working harder than it should, possibly due to overheating.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action before the problem worsens.
How to Prevent Your AC From Overheating
There are several steps you can take to prevent your air conditioner from overheating, even during late summer heat waves:
- Check and replace air filters regularly: Dirty filters are one of the most common causes of AC overheating. Make sure to check your filters every month and replace them if they’re dirty. This simple task ensures proper airflow and helps your system run efficiently.
- Clean the outdoor unit: The outdoor condenser unit can easily become clogged with dirt, leaves, and debris, especially after a long summer. Keep the area around the unit clear and hose it down to remove dirt buildup. This helps the condenser release heat more effectively, reducing the risk of overheating.
- Schedule regular maintenance: Professional maintenance is essential for keeping your AC running smoothly. During a maintenance visit, our technicians at DB Heating & Cooling will clean your system, check for any issues, and ensure everything is working properly. Preventive maintenance can catch small problems before they turn into major repairs, especially at the end of the summer.
- Keep the thermostat consistent: Avoid setting the thermostat too low during the hottest days, as this forces your AC to work overtime. Instead, keep the temperature at a consistent, comfortable level. This reduces the workload on your system and minimizes the risk of overheating.
- Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC to overheat. If you suspect your system is low on refrigerant, contact a professional right away to inspect the system and recharge it if necessary.
Why You Should Call a Professional ASAP
If you suspect your AC is overheating, don’t wait to call in the professionals. Continuing to run an overheating system can cause severe damage to components like the compressor, which is one of the most expensive parts to replace. By calling our team repairs as soon as you notice something is wrong, you can prevent a small issue from turning into a costly emergency.
DB Heating & Cooling, Inc serves the heating and cooling needs of customers throughout Rockland County, NY as well as Bergen County, NJ and surrounding communities. You can count on us for expert services. Contact us today!