air conditioner

Why Is My Air Conditioner Running Nonstop?

Some people might say that it is better to have an air conditioner that is always running than one that does not turn on at all. However, we know that the cost of cooling can be very high during hot summers.

An air conditioner constantly running will not last as long as one that cycles on and off and will likely need repairs or an ac replacement sooner.

If your air conditioner is running nonstop, there could be some underlying issues causing the problem. We’ll explain some of these issues and what you can do about them:

Your Thermostat Requires a Repair or Readjustment

One possibility is that your thermostat requires repair or readjustment. If your thermostat is not working properly, your air conditioner will continue to run nonstop. This can be due to various issues, like a dirty thermostat that’s been set too low or a thermostat that’s not calibrated correctly.

If your air conditioner is running nonstop, the first thing you should do is check your thermostat. Make sure that it’s clean and that the settings are correct. If it’s not dirty and the settings are correct, then you may need to have it repaired or readjusted.

Contact a qualified technician if you need to have your thermostat repaired or readjusted. They will be able to help you get your thermostat working properly again and could advise you on the best settings for your needs.

The Fan Switch is on Manual Mode

If your air conditioner runs nonstop, it could be due to the fan switch being in manual mode. This means the fan will continue to run even when the air conditioner is turned off, which can waste energy and cause your utility bills to skyrocket. To fix this, turn the fan switch to the “auto” position.

There is a Refrigerant Leak

If your AC is already low on refrigerant, it will run nonstop in an attempt to cool the air. This can be a serious problem that should be addressed by a trained professional.

The Contactor of the Air Conditioner Is Stuck

A stuck contactor is one of the most common issues that can cause an air conditioner to run nonstop. The contactor is the electrical switch that turns the power on to the air conditioner. If it gets stuck in the “on” position, the air conditioner will continue to run, even if the thermostat is turned off.

The easiest way to fix a stuck contactor is to replace it. You can find replacement contactors at most hardware stores.

Your Thermostat Is in a Warm Location

If your AC is running nonstop, it might be because your thermostat is in a warm location. Try moving your thermostat to a much cooler location in your home or office, and see if that makes a difference.

Conclusion

There are some potential reasons why your air conditioner might be running nonstop. It could be that the fan switch is on manual mode, the contactor is stuck, there’s a refrigerant leak, or the thermostat needs readjustment or is in a warm location in the house. The good news here is you can address most of these problems yourself. If you’re still having issues with your AC after correcting these, you can consult a reliable electrician who specializes in air conditioning. 

AutumnAir offers an array of services, including air conditioner repair and installation, among others. Contact us today to schedule your services!

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