Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do When Your AC Won't Stop Cycling
Summer is here, and it’s time to enjoy the sweet relief that air conditioning brings. But imagine your air conditioning unit won’t stop cycling. It can be frustrating, especially when you can’t seem to escape the heat. The good news is that most times, you can quickly repair this issue on your own. However, there are times when you should call in the professionals for help. This piece will provide you with easy steps to follow if your AC won’t stop cycling and let you know when you should turn to a professional.
Identify the Issue
Before you can solve the problem, you need to identify it first. If your AC won't stop cycling, you'll likely notice it turning on and off more frequently than it should. The first thing you should do is check the air filter. Dust and debris buildup on your air filter can make your air conditioning cycle on and off too often. If it is dirty, replace the filter and see if that reduces the cycling. If it doesn’t, check the thermostat calibration. This is important because an incorrectly calibrated or broken thermostat can cause the cycling. If neither of these issues seems to be causing the cycling, move on to the next step.
Check the AC Coil
When an AC unit won't stop cycling, the cooling coil is often the culprit. The cooling coil is found inside the air handler unit, which is typically located in the basement, closet, or attic. The cooling coil can become dirty and clogged over time, thus causing the AC unit to cycle on and off too frequently. If the cooling coil is dirty, clean it with a soft brush and a mild household cleaner. If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional to clean it for you.
Inspect the Electrical System
If cleaning the cooling coil didn't work, inspect the electrical systems of your AC unit. If you notice any visible damage, like frayed or damaged wires, turn off the AC unit immediately and call in a professional to repair the problem. If not, use a multimeter to test the voltage of your AC unit, especially at the contactor and capacitor. Check the voltage against the manufacturer’s recommendation. If the voltage is too low, the AC unit may start and stop too frequently, causing the cycling. You’ll want to call in a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.
When to Call a Professional
If you aren't comfortable working with electrical systems or troubleshooting an air conditioning unit, it may be time to call in a professional. Proficient technicians have the necessary skills and tools to diagnose and repair air conditioning problems quickly and safely. They can also identify hidden or complex issues that are difficult or impossible to detect, allowing you to eliminate any future breakdowns and saving you money in the long run.
A cycling AC unit can be frustrating and leave you feeling uncomfortable in the sweltering summer heat. Thankfully, most AC cycling issues can be quickly solved with some easy troubleshooting steps. Start with a dirty air filter, check your thermostat calibration, inspect your cooling coil, and test your electrical systems. However, if you're not comfortable diagnosing and fixing the problem yourself, don't hesitate to call in the professionals. They have years of experience and tools to diagnose and fix your AC unit quickly and safely, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the summer.
Contact a local HVAC contractor to learn more about AC system repair services.