If your air conditioner in Edmonton keeps running without taking a break, there’s a good chance you’re feeling frustrated. Whether it’s day or night, the constant hum can get annoying fast. Beyond the sound, this ongoing operation often signals that something isn’t working the way it should. Even worse, the longer the system runs unnecessarily, the more it wears down important parts. That sets you up for unexpected breakdowns during the hottest weeks of summer, exactly when you need it most.
Edmonton summers can put a lot of pressure on your AC, but that doesn’t mean it should be running non-stop. A properly functioning system should cycle on and off depending on the indoor temperature and your thermostat setting. If it refuses to shut off, the problem could be more than just warm weather. Understanding what’s causing this issue can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home comfortable all season long.
Understanding Why Your AC Is Constantly Running
There are several reasons why your AC might not be taking a break. While warm outdoor temperatures do play a role, a unit that never shuts off is usually a sign that something inside the system needs attention.
1. Dirty Air Filters
Clogged air filters are one of the most common reasons for constant operation. When the filter is full of dust and pet hair, air can’t move freely through your home. That means your AC has to work harder, and it won’t cool the space as efficiently. In many cases, the system runs and runs, trying to reach the temperature you’ve set but never quite getting there.
2. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Sometimes the issue is as simple as the thermostat. If the fan is set to “on” rather than “auto,” your system will keep blowing air constantly, even when it’s not actively cooling. In other cases, an older or malfunctioning thermostat sends mixed signals, confusing the system and causing it to stay on much longer than needed.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is what absorbs the heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors. If there’s a leak or your system is low on refrigerant, it can no longer cool your home effectively. The unit then tries to compensate by running longer cycles. You might notice your home feels a bit warmer than usual even though the air is still blowing.
4. Leaky Ductwork
When ductwork has leaks, the cool air escapes into unused areas like your attic or walls instead of flowing into your living space. This causes your thermostat to think your home hasn’t cooled down enough, so the AC keeps running.
Each of these problems affects system performance and energy use. The good news is that they’re all problems that can be corrected by finding the root cause and fixing it directly.
Identifying Common AC Issues That Cause Continuous Running
Once you know that something’s off, the next step is spotting which part of your system needs attention. Here’s a list of things to look out for so you can have a better idea of what might be happening.
– Check the air filter: If the filter is grey or filled with dust and hair, it’s time to replace it. Most filters should be checked monthly during heavy use.
– Look at the thermostat settings: Make sure it’s set to “auto,” not “on.” If the settings seem right but your system still doesn’t shut off, the thermostat itself might be malfunctioning.
– Pay attention to any warm humidity: If your AC is running but the space still feels sticky or warm, it might mean low refrigerant levels are to blame.
– Listen for constant fan noise: If the fan never seems to stop, even when the house is cool, that might reflect an issue with the fan relay or thermostat.
– Inspect your vents: Low airflow coming through the vents could signal blocked ducts or leaks somewhere in the ducting system.
For example, a homeowner in Edmonton once noticed their vents barely had any cool air coming out, even though the unit kept running. It turned out a clogged filter and a disconnected duct in the attic were letting most of the cool air escape. Fixing the duct and refreshing the filter solved the issue quickly.
Spotting these warning signs early can prevent long-term damage to your AC. While some problems might seem minor, they often point to larger issues in your system. If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to take the next step before a small fix turns into a full system repair.
Steps to Rectify Continuous AC Operation
Once you’ve identified warning signs, the next step is acting on them before small issues grow into expensive repairs. A few tasks can be handled regularly by homeowners, though anything technical or uncertain needs to be handled by professionals.
To keep your AC running efficiently during the summer months in Edmonton, start with simple checks:
– Replace your air filters at regular intervals. In heavy-use months, once a month is ideal.
– Set your thermostat to “auto” instead of “on.” This allows the fan to run only during cooling cycles, helping your system shut off naturally.
– Keep vents clean and uncovered. Furniture or curtains blocking airflow prevents proper circulation, making your AC work harder.
– Clear the area around your outdoor unit. Remove leaves, branches, or debris so the unit gets enough airflow.
– Schedule a check-up before peak summer hits. Even without obvious problems, preventative inspections help catch issues early.
Regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your system from running all day without a break. Replacing filters alone helps restore balanced airflow, while checking your thermostat settings ensures your AC isn’t stuck in a loop.
That said, some problems like refrigerant leaks or electrical issues are not something you should try to fix yourself. These issues need specialized tools and training, and tampering with them could cause more damage. When you’ve gone through all the simple fixes and things still don’t seem right, it’s time to bring in our professionals for a proper diagnosis.
When To Seek Professional AC Help In Edmonton
There are some problems that just can’t be solved with a filter change or quick reset. If your AC keeps running no matter what you do, it could point to a hidden fault inside the system. These include things like faulty control boards, damaged relays, or refrigerant system failures.
You should contact our technicians if you notice any of the following:
– The unit keeps blowing warm air even after resetting the thermostat
– There’s ice forming on the indoor or outdoor coils
– You’ve tried all basic solutions and nothing has changed
– You hear buzzing, clicking, or humming that doesn’t match your unit’s normal operation
– Energy bills have increased without a change in your usage habits
Our professionals can inspect areas you can’t access safely and determine if components are failing. Whether it’s a refrigerant leak, wiring issue, or fan motor problem, having a trained set of eyes helps prevent short-term fixes that don’t last.
Skipping service in these moments can lead to heavier wear on your AC. Edmonton’s summer heat doesn’t give AC units much of a break, so any added stress could shorten the system’s lifespan. Acting quickly when signs show up reduces long-term costs. Trust that if something feels off and you’ve ruled out the basics, an inspection should come next.
Keeping Your Home Cool And Comfortable In Edmonton
Managing an AC system that won’t stop running can feel like a guessing game. From filters to faulty settings and hidden duct issues, the causes vary but always affect your comfort and wallet. Consistent use without breaks costs more in energy and leads to faster wear on parts.
Edmonton homeowners know that summer stretches can be long and hot. Finding the right fix early, before systems are pushed to the limit, keeps indoor temperatures where they should be. Whether it’s improving airflow or spotting when professional repair is needed, addressing the problem always leads to better results. Staying ahead of this common AC issue ensures your system runs the way it should: cool when needed and quiet when at rest.
When your AC keeps running non-stop, our professionals from Mobil Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can help identify hidden issues and restore your comfort at home in Edmonton. By ensuring proper upkeep and timely intervention, you can avoid unnecessary energy costs and system wear. For reliable and prompt AC repair in Edmonton, please explore our services, and for a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.