Yes, you should turn off your air conditioner if it isn’t cooling or reaching the set temperature on your thermostat. Continuing to run your AC risks damage and higher energy consumption.

Soundview HVAC is your local heating and cooling contractor in Suffolk County. We’re available to assist with any of your air conditioner repair and maintenance needs this summer.

Key Takeaways

• Call a local HVAC contractor if your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home.
• Continuing to run an AC when it isn’t cooling can increase wear and energy consumption.
• Clogged filters, vents, and outdoor units are the most common causes of cooling problems in summer.

What Are the Risks of Running My AC When It Isn’t Cooling?

If you continue to run your AC that isn’t cooling down your home, you risk a major, costly breakdown.

The risks of leaving your faulty AC running include:

• Compressor Failure: When your air conditioner doesn’t reach the set temperature, the compressor will overheat as it runs continuously to achieve the target. There’s an especially high risk of compressor damage if your system has a refrigerant leak or airflow restriction from dirty coils or filters.
• Freezing Coils: If the problem is caused by air restriction or a faulty blower fan, air will stop moving across the evaporator coils. The temperature in the system will drop below freezing, turning condensation into solid ice.
• High Energy Bills: Your energy bills will skyrocket if you run your air conditioner when it has cooling problems. In an older system, there’s a high risk that the compressor will run for long cycles or continuously because the thermostat will never tell the system to shut off.
• Water Damage: Ice on the indoor evaporator coils will eventually melt and leak into your home, damaging structural materials and potentially causing mold growth. There’s a higher risk of this if the drain pan in your unit is clogged or cracked.

Troubleshooting Steps When Your Suffolk County Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Your Home

Air conditioning is essential during Suffolk County’s hot and often humid summer months. Here are the steps you can follow if your air conditioner feels like it isn’t cooling your home.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings: A loss of power or software glitch could reset your thermostat. Ensure that it’s set to a comfortable temperature. 76°F to 78°F is a comfortable temperature range for most people.
2. Check Your Filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow and can stop your system from working properly. Check that your filters aren’t clogged with dust and debris. You can review your owner’s manual to see if your system uses washable or replaceable filters. Replaceable filters are available at all major hardware retailers and most big box stores.
3. Check for Debris Around Your Outdoor Unit: Leaves and other debris around the shroud of your outdoor unit could reduce cooling performance. Inspect the unit and ensure that all of the grille openings are clear. Remove any debris.

If these steps don’t restore your AC’s cooling ability, you will need to talk to a licensed technician for troubleshooting and AC repair in Suffolk County. You could have an issue with a blower fan, refrigerant levels, or the compressor itself. A professional will diagnose your system while following all the manufacturer’s guidelines. Crucially, calling a licensed HVAC contractor will protect your warranty.

Call a Trusted Suffolk County AC Repair Company

Soundview HVAC has been trusted by local families and businesses since 2000. We serve all of Suffolk County and offer HVAC services for all brands and models, even those installed by other technicians.

Book AC repair today and restore your home’s summer cooling potential. You can book online or talk to us at 631-209-1744.