A lot of people have been asking, “Why does my air conditioner keep running after it has reached the set temperature?” This can be an indication of an issue.
When the temperature you have set in the thermostat is already reached, the AC unit must shut itself off automatically. But if this does not happen some issues will arise.
You will notice some things: excessive cooling, water dripping, continuous noise, and higher electricity bills. In some cases, the vents and fans may also ice up. These issues are an indication of internal damage or component failure.
Why Does Your Air Conditioner Keep Running After It Has Reached The Set Temperature?
If your AC unit still runs even if the set temperature is reached, there is a reason behind it. Figuring this out will help prevent the AC components from wearing and the high increase in electricity consumption.
So, why does my air conditioner keep running after it has reached the set temperature? Here are the common reasons why a unit keeps running even if the thermostat rating is reached.
#1. Thermostat issues
Sometimes the issue is rooted in the thermostat itself. For example, it may cause the unit to continue working even after reaching the temperature you set.
The problem here is that the thermostat could not sense the temperature setting, so it does not shut off the system.
#2. Dirty evaporator coils
Another major reason that could lead to this issue is the unclear evaporator coils. The function of this particular unit is cooling the freon gas when absorbing the warm air inside your space.
Most often than not, the humid air is also containing debris, dust, and dirt that will accumulate onto the coils. In such a case, the ac unit will not function as normal, causing the unit to run slow.
#3. Fan or blower motor issues
An air conditioning unit may also keep running when an issue with the blower motor or fan has occurred.
What commonly happens here is that the unit’s blower motor does not provide the right amount of air. As a result, in some cases, the fan may be running too slowly.
#4. Frozen evaporator coils
In case the evaporator coil of the unit freezes up, you will know right away because the air emitted from your air conditioner unit is warm instead of cold as the unit continues running.
#5. The air filter is restricted
Perhaps, the air filter that comes with your unit has is rated with high Merv; then, it most likely restricts the airflow. The unit may run longer in such a case since more time is needed in cooling your space.
#6. Clogged air filter
If the air filter of an ac unit is clogged, then it can lead to all sorts of problems. By the time the debris and dirt have accumulated in the air filters enough to block the air flowing to the system, the unit needs to work longer and harder.
So to cool your home correctly, the air conditioning unit will have to run continuously. With that being said, it is recommended to clean or change the filters regularly.
#7. Duct leakage
This issue is common among buildings with old ductworks. The cool air may be leaking from the ducts. This can also cause the unit to run continuously or work harder in keeping your house cool.
#8. Dirty condenser
If the condenser is dirty, the air conditioner will continue running after the temperature you set is reached the same way when the evaporator coil is uncleaned.
Proper airflow can be obstructed by debris, leaves, dirt, and dust accumulated in the condenser unit. With this, your cooling system will not work properly.
#9. Incorrect air conditioner size
This might be the case if you altered your home layout or changed your cooling equipment or system.
The issue may be the incorrect size of the air conditioner in relation to space. It is also possible that the power output is not enough in your building.
#10. Low refrigerant
If the freon level of your unit is low, then the ac may continue to work in maintaining a cool temperature. This usually happens if the refrigerant line or the evaporator coil leaks.
To solve this issue, you may acquire a freon kit to fix any small leaks by yourself. But for larger leaks, consider the help of a professional.
It’s A Wrap!
If anything goes wrong with your air conditioner, it is best to know the reason behind it. The above points can help you find the answer to your question, “Why does my air conditioner keep running after it has reached the set temperature?”
After knowing the solutions, you can next proceed to find out the solutions accordingly. But the best thing to do is to call a professional.
Remember that it is necessary to maintain the condition of your air conditioning unit so that it will prevent run-on after reaching the set temperature. Furthermore, this can help to cut the electricity bills contributed by your AC unit.