Why Does My AC Stop and Start Again?

Don’t let your air conditioner fall into disrepair. Call (859) 695-3950 to receive five-star maintenance from the Watson Heating & Air experts.

You may wonder, “Why does my AC stop and start again?” The answer may not be straightforward, depending on your unit. Still, you can explore a few common problems that may cause unexpected shutdowns with help from the AC repair experts in Richmond, KY.

Review the information below to improve the performance and energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Then schedule a consultation with repair technicians near you.

Home Electrical Problems

A broken AC unit is the last thing you want to experience during a hot summer day. Unfortunately, at-home electrical shortages and neighborhood-wide blackouts can cause your system to shut down without warning. 

It may also be worth inspecting your AC unit for corroded wiring, faulty circuit boards, and frayed cables. Pest activity and water damage can deteriorate electrical components in your system, causing unexpected shutdowns.

While some of these internal components are replaceable, severe damage may necessitate a total reinstallation. 

Dirty Air Filters

How often do you replace your AC’s air filters? Most HVAC professionals recommend replacements once every three months. A new air filter can:

• Trap dust, dander, and dirt in your unit — optimizing airflow
• Improve your overall comfort and indoor air quality
• Maximize the service life of your unit
• Prevent overperformance issues that result in higher utility expenses
• Reduce your risk of respiratory illness

Air filters are easy to replace and cost only $10-20 on average. Ask a professional repairman, like those at Watson Heating & Air, to help you if you aren’t sure how to install a new filter correctly.

Improper Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat too low can cause a wide range of problems for your AC unit. Primarily, your blower fan and run capacitor may overperform. When your AC unit works too hard to cool the home, it can cause parts to freeze and stop working.

It’s best to keep your thermostat settings within 20 degrees Fahrenheit of the outdoor temperature to prevent these problems. Ignoring the “20-degree rule” may reduce your appliance’s ability to operate consistently and reduce humidity and dust in the air.

You may be able to clear ice away and restore your AC to working order. However, significant damage can cause mold growth and rust that will prevent your appliance from turning back on.

Obstructions

Some homeowners ask, “Why does my AC stop and start again with new components?” Dirt and debris in your condenser coils and air ducts can stress your AC unit. Eventually, your appliance may overheat and shut down. 

Schedule routine vent cleanings to prevent his problem from occurring. A professional can:

• Check for large or small obstructions that prevent air flow
• Inspect for breaks or holes in your air ducts
• Patch damage in your condensate or refrigerant coils

Wrong Size Air Conditioner

It’s possible that your existing AC unit is too large for your home. In this case, you should replace it as soon as possible to avoid overspending on energy bills. 

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that having a large HVAC system will improve airflow and temperature control. However, quite the opposite is true — an oversized appliance can actually damage your property and produce inconsistent temperatures throughout the day. 

Forced air can deteriorate your air ducts and cause components to fracture in the primary console. Always ask a professional which size model your home needs for optimal efficiency. 

Aging Appliances

Modern air conditioners last 15-20 years with the proper upkeep. If you notice your AC unit shut off and on without warning, it may be reaching the end of its service life.

Hire a technician to inspect your appliance. In some cases, a few replacement parts may fix the problem. Other times, a total installation may be necessary to restore your indoor comfort. 

Contact a Professional Air Conditioning Repair Technician Today

Understanding your HVAC system may be challenging without the right guidance. You may wonder, “How can I prevent condensation from short circuiting my AC unit?” or “Why does running a fan on an air conditioner reduce humidity?” 

At Watson Heating & Air, we have all the answers you need to feel confident about your appliance. Hire our experienced technicians to inspect your AC unit and recommend the right repair solutions for your budget. We will respond quickly to your requests, so you don’t have to wait around in the heat.

Why does my AC stop and start again? Learn more with Watson Heating & Air in Richmond, KY. Call (859) 695-3950 to schedule maintenance today.