Is your HVAC running constantly? It can be frustrating when your system is always on. It’s more than just a comfort issue, it also drives up those energy bills.
It is normal for an HVAC system to run frequently. However, there is something wrong when your home never seems to reach the desired indoor temperature, no matter how much your system is working. Let’s find out common reasons when your HVAC is running constantly and look at ways to improve the comfort of your home.
Table of Contents:
Why an HVAC is Running Constantly
There are several reasons why your air conditioning unit might be working overtime. We’ll look at some issues to consider in finding a fix.
Your Home Has Insufficient Insulation
When a home lacks adequate insulation, the cool air escapes. This means an ac unit has to work harder to replace lost air. Insufficient insulation is a main culprit in air conditioners that seem to always be on.
Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass can allow air movement. The US Department of Energy suggests creating an air seal. An air seal gives greater control of the indoor air.
Spray foam insulation provides an exceptional air seal; it’s the most popular recommendation of professional spray foam insulators like, Kansas Spray Foam Insulation. By forming a barrier against air leaks, spray foam can make the HVAC run less frequently and reduce stress on the central air conditioning. This material can improve energy use greatly, reducing the amount you see on each utility bill.
Airflow Restrictions with the HVAC System
Several problems might limit proper airflow from the central air system, leading to the “HVAC running constantly” scenario. We at Bolivar Insulation have learned several signs of poor HVAC airflow since we were founded in 1948. Let’s find ways to improve your ac running by pinpointing its source.
Here’s a quick breakdown of HVAC issues to consider:
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| Weak Airflow at Vents | Air is conditioned, but air coming out of the vents is weak. |
| Dirty Air Filter | Clogged filters full of debris will catch the air as it attempts to pass. |
| Blocked Vents | Vents blocked inside your home limit airflow. |
| HVAC Damage | Ductwork or the actual unit could have damage and limit air movement in the system. |
Each one of these issues, when not addressed, impacts air pressure. This will cause strain to an air conditioning system.
Let’s talk about each individually.
Airflow is Weak, But Feels Cool or Warm
When vents supply conditioned air weakly, that’s a sign of airflow restriction. While the ac unit can get air at the thermostat set temperature, the airflow resistance slows things. Restricted airflow makes the conditioner running constantly.
The solution could involve examining ductwork for leaks or obstructions, addressing a failing blower motor. It’s best to consult a professional for a diagnosis and fixes, like Homesense Heating and Cooling. This improves air circulation in an HVAC system and improves home comfort.
Air Filter is Filled With Debris
It’s important to check the air filters frequently, especially if your air conditioner is running constantly. Clean filters allow for more efficient air flow. This contributes to lower energy bills and a higher functioning unit.
Dirty or clogged filters force your unit to run longer and can shorten its lifespan greatly. Changing your filters is inexpensive, and experts agree it should be done every 3 months, possibly sooner. Clean airflow is crucial for comfortable living environments, while cutting long-term costs for potential HVAC problems.
Blocked or Closed Vents Around the Home
Sometimes blocked vents in rooms of your house could cause the unit to constantly work. So, make sure they are clean of debris and not blocked. The cause could be blocked vents on purpose in your living spaces.
Vents allow even distribution of conditioned air. Blocking them hinders a consistent climate and raises the stress of the system. Keep air vents unblocked and clear.
Ductwork, HVAC Unit and/or Size Issues
Several additional items can impact an HVAC unit and are crucial to understand. The ductwork itself could have unseen damage. Your ac unit may even be the wrong size to meet the conditioning requirements you set.
Ductwork Could be the Problem
Ductwork could have holes, or it can get disconnected at some point, so it’s smart to have it inspected. Damaged ductwork reduces its efficiency significantly. Addressing damaged or disconnected ducts makes sure your HVAC isn’t wasting conditioned air.
Properly sized ductwork allows for smooth, uninterrupted flow to get efficiency with the unit’s work. Consult with experts so you use the duct that’s most appropriate for home comfort. Professional maintenance and prompt repairs can avoid big problems and expensive fixes to an air conditioning unit.
Sizing Your Unit
Making sure your central air conditioner is the right size is very important to its performance. When a unit is undersized, it will overwork without reaching comfort levels for the room or structure. It can potentially run and run, and the power usage will add up with less than satisfactory indoor temperature.
It could potentially shorten the life of your whole unit, so avoid costly replacements, and maintain your unit properly. Address HVAC size issues by discussing your home or building with your spray foam insulation contractor. It is a good alternative and cheaper choice over a new system replacement.
Sealing your home fully is best. When insulation needs are met, there is less overall impact to a structure, saving you money month after month.
More Possible Reasons For a HVAC Running Constantly
There are several problems you’ll need to explore for why an “ac constantly running” problem happens. Here are the added possibilities we will discuss below:
- A Bad Thermostat
- A Unit with Refrigerant Leaks
- Dirty HVAC Coils
Thermostat Has Problems
A failing thermostat is a common reason for a constantly working system. If a thermostat fails, then it is always calling for action. Inspect thermostat wires and placement frequently so there are no connection issues.
Make sure it is communicating with your conditioning unit properly. The constant calls to cool or warm a room drives energy expenses much higher. We always try replacing the batteries or changing the filter for small attempts to get a unit from an “always on” to normal, timed out action.
Consider checking thermostat settings every 3 months, or if you think it’s malfunctioning.
Your Unit Has Refrigerant Leaks
Ac refrigerant leaks affect temperature. Without consistent chemical amounts in your system, HVAC systems lose the ability to work effectively. This forces the system to continuously compensate for temperature loss, causing home temperatures to suffer. It can also cause frozen evaporator coil issues.
Regular HVAC inspections can catch potential problems sooner than later, before they escalate to big problems. Ac refrigerant leak repairs can save you from higher utility bills in the short and long term. It will stop your “conditioner constantly running” situation from ever starting.
Your Unit has Dirty HVAC Coils
It’s important that an HVAC system can flow its air without being caught by dust and debris that coils can develop. When you prevent flow issues, you’ll avoid issues and expenses that are a guarantee to surface over the years. The “ac constantly running” warning flag is one big warning for those with this problem.
Dirty evaporator coils and condenser coils can cause a range of problems. Make routine maintenance a habit in home and building care-taking routines. This lowers the maintenance requirements of your HVAC overall.
Clean coils lower pressure. It helps regulate utility use, avoiding expensive maintenance, bills, or fixes. An hvac technician can easily check this for you.
Conclusion
An “HVAC running constantly” concern has many things to think through. As you’ve learned, from insulation issues, airflow restrictions, to general upkeep failures, you can impact any unit’s effectiveness and longevity.
You can change airflow habits like changing filters, unblocking vents, and sealing drafts today. This can be done before considering larger expenses for a total unit change.
Whether it is improving airflow to be more comfortable, there is never a perfect fix. Prioritizing upkeep is how you manage HVAC maintenance efficiently. Spray foam air sealing is how we have served families with high-impact change, and they see results in days, instead of years. Consider scheduling ac service with a qualified hvac contractor if you suspect any issues. Schedule service before the hot summer days truly set in, and you’ll improve your cooling efficiency.
