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How Heat Waves Affect Your Air Conditioner

10/15/2024

It’s finally Autumn! The leaves are falling, suburban moms are posting nonstop pictures of pumpkin-flavored drinks, and sweltering triple-digit heat waves are running rampant across the entire Southwest. So if you thought it was about time for sweater weather, you were sadly mistaken. Unless you can finally get your air conditioner to work!

Why Air Conditioners Struggle in Extreme Heat

Below, we highlight common A/C problems caused by late-season heat waves and offer simple solutions for fixing them. 

1. Overheating Parts

The Problem

Air conditioners are designed to disperse heat, but during extended heat waves, critical components like the compressor and condenser coils may have trouble dissipating effectively. This can cause the system to overheat, leading to possible breakdowns or even damage to the compressor.

The Solution

Dirty condenser and evaporator coils make it harder for the system to release heat properly. To ensure your A/C is working at its best, clean these coils at once a year, or more if you’re using the system a lot.

2. Prolonged Cooling Cycles

The Problem

During heat waves, your air conditioner runs for longer in order to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This extended use puts additional stress on the system, increasing the likelihood of malfunctions.

The Solution

Here are a few simple ways to reduce the length of cooling cycles:

  • Make sure your home is properly insulated and that any gaps around windows, doors, or other openings are sealed to prevent cool air from escaping.
  • Use ceiling fans to help circulate the cool air more effectively, so you can raise the thermostat a bit without losing comfort.
  • Close blinds or curtains to block out sunlight and reduce the amount of heat entering your home.

3. Higher Energy Consumption

The Problem

When temperatures spike, your air conditioner has to work even harder to keep your home cool. This increases energy usage, putting strain on the electrical grid, which could lead to outages. Overworking the system also lowers its efficiency and increases your energy bills.

The Solution

If your air conditioner is outdated, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Modern A/C systems are built to handle higher demand while consuming less energy, helping you save on electricity costs.

4. Lack of Routine Maintenance

The Problem

Issues like clogged air filters, dirty coils, or refrigerant leaks can prevent your A/C from performing at its best, especially during a heatwave. These problems are made worse when your system is already under extra strain due to extreme heat.

The Solution

Regular maintenance can help your system manage the increased demand during hot weather. While tasks like changing air filters and cleaning coils can be done on your own, more technical work — like checking refrigerant levels — should be left to a professional technician.

For expert help, feel free to contact Orange County/Tustin Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning A/C specialists at (714) 400-2913.

Residential & Commercial Professional Services

Orange County, Tustin, 92780 | (714) 400-2913