4 Reasons Your AC System Is Overheating in San Antonio, TX

It’s always a shock when you realize your air conditioner is overheating rather than effectively cooling your home. Not only are you hot and uncomfortable, but you may start fretting about how much it’ll cost to repair. Consider these four possible reasons your AC system in San Antonio, TX, is overheating so you can act quickly:

Air Can’t Get Through the Filter

Your air conditioner works by absorbing heat from the air it circulates through the system. If there’s insufficient airflow, the AC system strains to get more air through, causing components to overheat. Common causes of airflow restrictions include:

• Dirty air filter.
• Worn-out or dirty circulating fan.
• Blocked or closed supply vents.
• Insufficient refrigerant charge.

Dirty Condensing Coil

The condensing coil sits outside in the condensing unit. Its job is to transfer the heat from the condensed refrigerant to the air outside.

With AC system use, the coil will get dirty with dust and dirt, which forms a type of insulation. This insulating effect inhibits heat transfer, leaving too much heat in the AC system and leading to overheating. Prevent this by having the coil cleaned during routine air conditioner maintenance.

Insufficient Refrigerant Charge

Insufficient refrigerant in the AC system will cause it to freeze. Contrary to the visible problem, this causes the air conditioner to overheat, especially the compressor. A service technician checks the AC system’s charge during routine maintenance and allows you to locate and correct a leak.

You Have an Outdated AC System

The average air conditioner will serve a home for 10 to 15 years when properly maintained. An aging air conditioner has components that aren’t working optimally, which strains the system.

This excessive strain can overheat the compressor and the circulating fan motor. Plan for a new AC installation when your system reaches the end of its intended life.

An overheating AC system will drive up your energy costs, not to mention the risk of catastrophic damage to your air conditioner. Schedule an AC maintenance or repair appointment with one of our NATE-certified service technicians at Climate Control Heating & Air today.

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