It can be the hottest time of year in Maryland, and your AC keeps running. Is this usual, or should you be concerned? We will discuss when your AC should constantly work, when it is a sign of a problem, and how homeowners in Upper Marlboro can maintain a cool home and their system during this period.

How Normal AC Performance Looks in Summer

Your AC will likely work harder in the summer heat. When it is very warm outside, your air conditioner has to work harder to maintain your home’s temperature. You probably do not need to worry if your AC is running smoothly.

These are signs that your AC is performing as it should:

• The temperature in your home does not fluctuate.
• The air coming out of the vents is strong and continuous.
• All the sounds and smells are normal.
• Your energy bill is about the same as it was last summer.

When these things happen, your AC will work fine.

Why Your AC Running Constantly in the Summer Could Be a Problem

If your air conditioner is on constantly, it might show signs of a problem. Letting your AC run a bit longer when it is hot is fine, but operating it continuously can strain your system significantly. As a result, your energy costs might increase, and your system could fail.

There are a few reasons your AC might run nonstop during the summer.

1. Your Air Conditioner Might Be the Wrong Size

When your AC is too small, it will keep running nonstop to cool each room. It cannot handle the heat during hot Maryland summers. This occurs when the system is installed using the wrong size.

An expert AC technician in Maryland should do a Manual J load calculation to determine the correct size for your home. If your AC is not big enough, getting a unit that fits your home correctly will save you energy and make your home cooler.

2. Your AC May Be Too Old

An air conditioner will not work forever. A typical system should last for about 15–20 years. After some time, the parts become worn, and the cooling system becomes less effective.

If your AC is old and has not been serviced regularly, it could keep working, but it will not cool the air as it should. Because of this, you may pay more for your energy. Switching to a modern energy-saving model helps you save money and experience more comfort over time.

3. You Could Have Air Leaks

The air in your home might escape through tiny openings around windows, doors, or pipes. Your AC is forced to stay on longer to compensate for the lost air. Leaks in your ducts can also lead to the same issue.

Use weatherstripping or caulk to fix leaks around your windows and doors. If leaks are in your ducts, use HVAC tape or sealant. Contact a professional if you can't reach your ducts or the problem is big.

4. Your Coils Might Be Dirty

The coils in your air conditioner move heat from inside your home to the outside. The system will not adequately cool your house if the coils are not clean. As a result, your AC continues to run but does not cool your home as it should.

You may clean the coils by mixing water and a mild detergent. If there is a lot of buildup, it may be best to call a professional for a cleaning. A clean coil allows your AC to function better and consume less energy.

5. Airflow May Be Blocked

If air is blocked inside your AC, it will not function properly. A clogged air filter or vent can prevent the proper flow of air, so your AC needs to run longer to reach the temperature you have set.

Keep the vents open and check your filter regularly. Replace the filters in your air conditioner every three months. If the airflow still malfunctions, your blower motor or ductwork could be at fault. If this happens, it is best to get help from a technician.

6. Your Thermostat Might Be Set Too Low

Adjusting your thermostat too low when it is very hot can put too much stress on your air conditioner. If you set the temperature at 65°F when it’s 97°F outside, your unit will keep working nonstop. Because the AC cannot get to that temperature, it keeps working to get there.

You can correct this by bumping your thermostat up by a few degrees. During summer, you should set your thermostat between 72 and 76°F. This will reduce the strain on your AC system and allow it to work better.

7. Your AC Needs Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps your AC work properly. Without maintenance, parts deteriorate, the airflow decreases, and the air conditioner doesn’t cool either. As a result, your AC may keep running all the time.

The best idea is to schedule a tune-up in spring, before summer. A technician will spot any issues, tidy up your system, and advise you on how to fix them. Maintaining your AC correctly will help it last longer and use less electricity.

Conclusion

Your AC is expected to work harder in the summer, but if it keeps running without stopping, you may have a bigger problem. Many things, such as the size and age of the system, dirty filters, and airflow issues, can influence performance. Noticing the early signs? Take action right away to keep cool and save on your energy bills. Riley Heat & Air is your best AC repair and service choice in Upper Marlboro, MD.