Why Won�t Your AC Turn Off in Franklin, OH?

You might think that an air conditioner that won’t turn off isn’t such a bad thing. After all, it’s hot this summer in Franklin, and you want your home to stay nice and cool. But then you get your electric bill, and you know that the constantly running air conditioner is to blame. Now you’re wondering, “Why won’t my AC turn off, and what should I do to fix it?”

Below, learn the top reasons why an air conditioner runs nonstop, then call us for AC services in Franklin, OH.

Why Won’t My AC Turn Off? Top Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Runs Constantly in Franklin, OH

When the weather turns hot, it’s normal for your air conditioner to run fairly frequently to keep your home comfy. But if the system runs ceaselessly without stopping, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Here are the most common reasons why your air conditioner won’t turn off.

The Thermostat May Be Causing Your System To Run Nonstop

When troubleshooting an air conditioner, it’s always best to start with the simple things first. Take a look at the temperature setting on your thermostat, and you may be surprised to see that it’s much lower than you thought. Someone may have bumped the device, or maybe a sneaky family member lowered the temperature on the sly.

If the temperature looks correct, make sure that the thermostat is set to “auto” and not “on.” If it’s set to “on,” the air conditioner’s fan will run constantly. That settles the question, “Why won’t my AC turn off?”

Still no luck? Your thermostat might need calibration, new batteries, repairs, or replacement. Thermostats only last for about 10 years before they start developing issues with wiring and sensors.

You Need To Change the Air Filter

Air conditioner filters sit out of sight, out of mind, so it’s easy to forget to replace them. If you’ve neglected to change yours for too long, it’s probably caked with dirt, hair, and other debris. A dirty filter stops fresh air from flowing through the unit, and it’ll have to work harder and longer to cool your home. Eventually, the system might overheat and shut down.

Generally, you should replace the filter every 30 to 90 days. If you have pets or a big family, you might need to change it more often.

The Coils May Need Cleaning

“Why won’t my AC turn off?” If your air conditioner won’t shut down, dirty coils may be to blame.

Your air conditioner has two coils: an evaporator coil and a condenser coil. These coils play a big part in eliminating heat from your Franklin home and replacing it with cool air.

Air conditioner coils are magnets for dust and other filth. If you go too long between cleanings, the unit will struggle to do its job, just as it will with a dirty filter. To fix the problem, call an HVAC technician for coil cleaning.

The Cooling Unit Has Electrical Issues

Many times, when a machine won’t turn off, there’s an electrical problem preventing it from “knowing” that it’s time to stop running. For example, a short circuit can cause an HVAC system malfunction, as can a stuck relay switch.

Your system’s compressor contactor could be causing trouble, too. If it’s welded closed, the air conditioner will receive a constant supply of power that causes it to run nonstop. This can damage the unit, so it’s critical to have an HVAC pro take a look right away.

You’re Running Low on Refrigerant

Have you noticed your Franklin home steadily getting warmer and warmer? You hear the air conditioner running, but no matter how long it runs, the temperature only seems to rise. Often, this indicates that your refrigerant levels are low.

If your system is relatively new, technicians may not have installed it properly. If it’s on the older side, it may have developed a crack that causes the refrigerant to leak out. You’ll need to have an HVAC expert find and repair the leak before adding more refrigerant.