Air conditioners become electronic items that must be in your home when you live in a hot area. But what happens if the AC does not shut off when set temp is reached?
One common issue is incorrect thermostat settings. If the thermostat settings are incorrectly calibrated, your air conditioning system may not recognize when the desired temperature is reached. This can cause the air conditioner to run continuously, leading to increased wear and potential damage.
Not only a waste of electricity, but the room temperature in your house can also be very cold. If a problem occurs, it is because the AC unit is constantly on and never turns off. Here we give some reasons why the AC won’t turn off and how to fix it.
As an HVAC professional with extensive experience, I’ve encountered numerous instances of air conditioners failing to shut off. Here’s a detailed guide based on both personal experience and industry best practices.
Several Reasons Why AC Does Not Shut Off When Set Temp Reached
If the AC cannot turn off automatically when the set temperature is reached, there are several reasons why it can happen:
Blower fan setting error is the simplest thing to know about the AC problem. This can happen because the AC is constantly turned on. Another factor to consider is wear and tear on the blower motor. Over time, the blower motor in your air conditioning system can become less efficient, causing the unit to continue to run even after reaching the set temperature.
Clogging of the air filter. If the air filter is dirty, it will hinder the AC unit’s ability to function. If the air filter is not checked or replaced regularly, it will cause long-term damage. Therefore, the air filter should usually be replaced every 30-90 days, depending on the AC load.
Read also: How to Reset Clean Filter on LG Air Conditioner
The set temp is reached by the dirty evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is the controller of the air inside the air conditioner. These objects play an important role in the ability of the air conditioner to cool the air. If the evaporator is clogged with dirt, mold, or other contaminants, the cooling cycle will not stop.
Extreme weather conditions. In some areas, frequent heat waves can reach three-digit temperatures. At that time, even the best air conditioners couldn’t keep up with the hot temperature. As a result, the air conditioner continuously tries to cool the temperature in a very hot room.
The air conditioner is too small, but the room is big enough. This causes the air conditioner to work in overdrive to reach the desired temperature. However, this was not successfully done by the system from the AC. Well, because the AC also never turns off, the energy consumption will be so much and cause your electricity bill to swell.
The last reason your AC can’t turn off automatically is that you have to replace it. Yes, actually, most AC brands can only last 15 years. So, if your AC can’t be turned off, it’s possible that it is old and should be replaced immediately.
Ways to Repair The Air Conditioner Doesn’t Turn Off Automatically
Check the Thermostat: Ensure the thermostat settings are correct and not set too low. Calibrate the thermostat if necessary.
Clean the Condenser: A dirty condenser can cause the unit to overwork. Clean the condenser coil and the filter to restore efficiency.
Inspect the Fan Limit Switch: The fan should operate as instructed by the thermostat. Check the fan limit switch and ensure it is set correctly.
Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including checking for frozen evaporator coils and ensuring the air handler is in good condition, can prevent many of these issues. Allow your air conditioner to rest for about 15-20 minutes after reaching the set temperature to avoid overworking the system.
Read also: Window Air Conditioner Turns On and Off Right Away?
In my years of experience, I recall a case where a client’s air conditioner ran continuously during a heatwave. Upon inspection, we found that the evaporator coils were frozen, and the thermostat needed recalibration. After cleaning the coils and resetting the thermostat, the unit functioned efficiently again.
Conclusion
Understanding why your air conditioner does not shut off when the set temperature is reached is crucial for its maintenance and efficiency. Regular maintenance, proper thermostat settings, and timely cleaning can prevent many common issues.
