Are you worried about the state of your air conditioner? To confirm it’s running well, call Complete Comfort Control at 631-910-7649.
If you’ve experienced a string of hot days and seen your utility bill increasing, you’re probably wondering, “How long should the AC run on a 100-degree day?” Is it normal for your AC to run constantly on high-temperature days? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about a constantly-running air conditioner.
If you need help with your air conditioner, call Complete Comfort Control, the Hamptons’ trusted AC repair.
The Ideal Duration
How long your air conditioning unit should run depends largely on the temperature. On mild days, the air conditioner should only activate for 15 minutes at a time to achieve your desired indoor temperature. However, as the temperature increases, your AC unit will run longer to keep up.
For a 100-degree day, it’s normal for your system to run constantly. However, it significantly increases your utility bill. If your air conditioner runs constantly when it doesn’t need to, there are other factors to consider.
Why the Air Conditioner Is Running Constantly
If your air conditioner works constantly to maintain your home’s comfort, consider one or more of the following factors.
The Outside Temperature
Outdoor temperatures are the most common reason your air conditioner won’t stop running. High humidity also enhances the effect of warm weather and forces your air conditioner to work harder. If your air conditioner keeps running, ask yourself the following questions:
- Is the temperature in my house comfortable?
- Do I feel cold air coming out of my vents?
- On cooler days, did my air conditioner run less?
If you can answer yes to all these questions, your air conditioner is acting exactly as it should.
Your Thermostat Settings
How long should the AC run on a 100-degree day? That partially depends on your thermostat settings. If you set your desired temperature too low, your air conditioner will have to keep running until it reaches it.
What are the best settings for your thermostat? The most efficient temperature is 78 degrees. This ensures that your air conditioner runs fewer hours per day and saves you money on your energy bills.
If 78 seems too hot for comfort, consider investing in ceiling fans or insulated window treatments like solar shades.
Your Air Conditioner’s Size
If your air conditioner can’t maintain your desired temperature, it could be too small for your home. If the air conditioner runs for more than 20 minutes without significantly changing the temperature, it’s a sure sign your air conditioner is too small.
While you might consider keeping an under-sized air conditioner to avoid installation costs, you’re losing money. Between the higher energy bills and shorter life span of an overworked AC unit, you’ll spend more over time than you would if you installed a new air conditioner immediately.
Your AC Unit’s Condition
Air conditioners age like every other appliance, and when they suffer wear and tear, they can’t cool your home as efficiently. Routine yearly maintenance is the key to keeping your AC unit working at peak volume so it can keep your home comfortable. Call your local HVAC technician if you have any concerns about your air conditioner.
Blocked Airflow
Your HVAC system can experience a blockage in several different places, but the air filter is the most common place. A blocked or dirty air filter reduces your air conditioner’s ability to cool the air and move it throughout your house. You can easily check and replace the air filter if you believe it’s the cause of your problems.
Poor Insulation
Insulation keeps the cold air inside and the hot air outside. If you have subpar insulation, your air conditioner might have trouble keeping up, even if it’s the proper size.
A Leaking Air Conditioner
If your air conditioner leaks refrigerant, it can’t properly cool air. Refrigerant leaks are more common as the air conditioner ages. An HVAC technician can find the leak, repair it, and restore your refrigerant levels so you can return your home to comfort.
Call Complete Comfort Control for Air Conditioner Help
How long should the AC run on a 100-degree day? Now you can consider every aspect and decide if your air conditioner requires attention. With a reputation for excellence, free consultations, and unsurpassed knowledge of HVAC systems, Complete Comfort Control is the Hamptons’ first choice when an air conditioner fails.
To discover all our AC maintenance services and keep your unit lasting longer, call Complete Comfort Control at 631-910-7649.