Why Your AC Can’t Keep Up on Hot Days

Summer's scorching heat can be unbearable, and your trusty air conditioner becomes your saving grace during these times. However, there are moments when your AC system seems to struggle, leaving you hot and frustrated.

Have you ever wondered why your AC can't keep up on those particularly sweltering days? In this blog, we'll delve into the reasons behind this issue and explore some tips to help your AC perform at its best, even in the hottest conditions:

One of the most common reasons why your AC may struggle on hot days is that it's simply overworked. When the temperature soars, your AC has to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. It needs to remove more heat from your home, and if it's not properly maintained or appropriately sized for your space, it can struggle to keep up.

Solution: Ensure your AC unit is appropriately sized for your space, and don't neglect regular maintenance. Change the filters, clean the condenser coils, and have the system inspected by a professional to keep it running efficiently.

Dirty or clogged air filters can impede the airflow in your AC system. When the air filter is blocked, the system has to work much harder to push air through, leading to decreased cooling efficiency.

Solution: Regularly check and change your air filters, especially during the summer months. Most manufacturers recommend changing them every one to three months, but it can vary based on usage and the type of filter you use.

Curious about air filter maintenance? Check out our blog, “How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?”

Ductwork is the hidden highway that carries cool air from your AC to various parts of your home. If your ducts have leaks or are poorly insulated, a significant amount of cold air may escape before it reaches its intended destination. In fact, Phoenix homeowners can lose up to 20% of conditioned air through leaks. This means your AC has to work even harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Solution: Have your ductwork inspected and sealed if necessary. Properly insulated and sealed ducts can improve the efficiency of your AC system and help it perform better on hot days.

At George Brazil, we’re pros at duct sealing. Give us a call at (602) 842-0009 today and we’ll schedule a time to test and seal your home’s ducts. We’ve offered transparent pricing, unmatched quality workmanship, and guaranteed satisfaction since 1955.

The age and efficiency of your AC unit are crucial factors in its ability to cool your home on hot days. Older units may not be as energy-efficient and struggle to produce enough cool air.

Additionally, older units are at risk of a failing compressor. The compressor is the heart of your AC system, responsible for pumping refrigerant and cooling your home. If the compressor is failing, your AC will struggle to cool your home effectively.

Solution: If your AC unit is aging and showing signs of inefficiency, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer models are designed to be more energy-efficient and can better handle hot summer days.

For more information, check out our blogs, “Signs and Causes of an Inefficient AC System” and “How Much Does it Cost to Replace Your AC Compressor?”

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioning system. If your AC is low on refrigerant, it won't be able to remove heat effectively, resulting in poor cooling performance.

Solution: If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it's essential to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue. Never attempt to add refrigerant yourself; it requires special equipment and expertise.

Routine maintenance is crucial to keep your AC system running smoothly. Neglecting maintenance tasks can lead to issues like reduced cooling capacity, increased energy consumption, and even system breakdowns.

Solution: Schedule annual maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician. They can clean and inspect your system, making necessary adjustments to ensure it's operating at peak performance.

To learn more, read our blog, “When Should I Get My HVAC System Maintained?”