As summer comes to an end, the increasing heat can push air conditioners to their limits. Unfortunately, this is when many systems start to experience problems. At Skylands Energy Service, our HVAC experts in your area are here to help homeowners tackle end-of-summer AC challenges before they compromise your comfort and efficiency.
This article addresses the common question, “Why is my AC not keeping up as the season comes to a close?” We’ll examine the key factors behind late-season cooling struggles, such as dirty components, thermostat issues, refrigerant loss, and system wear, and discuss when to seek professional service.
Maximize Your AC’s Efficiency: Turn to Skylands Energy Service for expert air conditioner repairs and thorough diagnostics. Reach out to us today!
Addressing End-of-Summer Cooling Challenges: Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up?
Table of Contents
- 1 Addressing End-of-Summer Cooling Challenges: Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up?
- 1.1 Clogged HVAC Air Filters & Decreased AC Unit Airflow
- 1.2 Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leaks & Low Charge
- 1.3 Dirty AC Unit Evaporator & Condenser Coils
- 1.4 Undersized or Aging Air Conditioner Equipment
- 1.5 Incorrect HVAC Thermostat Settings & Calibration
- 1.6 Leaky HVAC Ducts & Insufficient Insulation
- 1.7 Malfunctioning Air Conditioning Blower Motor or Capacitor
- 2 When to Contact Skylands Energy Service for Professional HVAC Support
- 3 Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up: FAQs
- 3.1 How Do High Outdoor Temperatures Impact My AC’s End-of-Summer Efficiency?
- 3.2 Will a Variable-Speed HVAC System Improve Cooling During the End of Summer?
- 3.3 Can High Indoor Humidity Reduce My AC’s Effectiveness?
- 3.4 How Does Restricted Airflow in Ductwork Affect Cooling Efficiency?
- 3.5 Do Smart Thermostat Features Improve Late-Summer AC Performance?
- 4 Conclusion
- 5 Contact Skylands Energy Service for Dependable HVAC Solutions
As summer temperatures reach their highest point, many air conditioning systems experience reduced performance. Identifying the root causes of these issues enables you to address them effectively before the heat becomes too much to handle.
Clogged HVAC Air Filters & Decreased AC Unit Airflow
One of the primary causes of late-season AC problems is a clogged air filter. As filters accumulate dust, pollen, and other debris, they obstruct airflow, causing the system to work harder. This restriction reduces cooling efficiency and puts extra strain on the equipment.
As airflow decreases, indoor temperatures rise, and your energy bills increase. Neglecting the effects of dirty filters can result in long-term damage to your system and costly repairs.
Homeowners frequently observe reduced airflow from vents or uneven temperatures in different areas of the house. Both are clear indicators that the filter requires attention.
To maintain optimal airflow and system efficiency during peak cooling months, pleated filters must be replaced every 30 days. Regular filter replacements help protect your AC system and ensure steady comfort throughout the hottest weeks of summer.
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Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leaks & Low Charge
Throughout the summer, the constant expansion and contraction of system components can cause joints and fittings to loosen, resulting in slow refrigerant leaks as the season progresses.
This often leads to extended cooling cycles, decreased efficiency, and ice forming on the evaporator coil, which indicates low refrigerant levels. Warm air from the vents is another indicator of refrigerant loss and signals system imbalance.
Since handling refrigerant requires specialized equipment and certification, only certified professionals should perform an AC recharge. They can detect signs of refrigerant leaks, fix the damaged components, and restore the system to the correct charge level, ensuring it operates at peak efficiency.
Achieve Consistent Comfort in Every Room: Trust Skylands Energy Service for professional duct sealing and airflow optimization. Contact us today!
Dirty AC Unit Evaporator & Condenser Coils
Throughout the cooling season, evaporator and condenser coils accumulate pollen, grass clippings, and other airborne debris. This buildup creates an insulating layer that hinders heat transfer, reducing the system’s efficiency in removing heat from your home. Dirty coils contribute to late-season cooling issues by causing the unit to run for longer periods while providing less effective cooling.
To ensure optimal performance, it’s recommended to schedule professional coil cleaning at least once a year. Homeowners can help maintain coil efficiency by lightly brushing or vacuuming accessible coils between professional visits. Regular coil cleaning is a key component of effective condenser care.
Undersized or Aging Air Conditioner Equipment
An undersized air conditioner may no longer be able to handle your home’s cooling needs, particularly after renovations, room additions, or insulation improvements. When the system struggles to keep up, it operates for longer periods and fails to cool effectively, leading to common late-season AC problems. Additionally, an aging AC unit may gradually lose its efficiency over time, further decreasing its performance and causing indoor temperatures to rise.
Look out for these signs of an undersized air conditioner or an aging system:
- Frequent or short cycling
- Increased energy bills
- Inconsistent or weak temperature regulation
If you notice these issues, it may be time to consider replacing your aging AC. A professional HVAC load calculation will help determine the correct system size. Upgrading to a unit with a higher SEER rating improves cooling efficiency, boosts overall performance, and enhances comfort, particularly during the hottest summer months.
Optimize Your Home’s Comfort: Contact Skylands Energy Service to install and set up your smart thermostat for efficient cooling. Contact us today!
Incorrect HVAC Thermostat Settings & Calibration
Improper thermostat settings are a common cause of late-season AC problems. For instance, selecting the “On” fan mode instead of “Auto” keeps the fan running continuously. This can re-evaporate moisture and reduce dehumidification, leading to discomfort on humid late-season days.
Additionally, thermostat sensors may lose accuracy as time passes, causing calibration drift. This can result in the system short-cycling or running inefficiently, wasting energy and putting unnecessary strain on components.
To address these issues, switch the fan setting to “Auto,” replace outdated units, or consider installing a programmable thermostat for improved control. Ensuring proper thermostat settings and recalibrating the system as needed can greatly enhance efficiency and indoor comfort.
Leaky HVAC Ducts & Insufficient Insulation
During hot summer months, ductwork can expand, creating small gaps that result in loss of cooled air, particularly in unconditioned areas such as attics or crawl spaces. These leaks reduce system efficiency and contribute to persistent hot spots or rooms that remain uncomfortable.
Indicators of issues include uneven temperatures around vents and louder-than-usual airflow sounds. To fix these problems, arrange for a professional HVAC technician to identify and seal any duct leaks.
While waiting, apply mastic or metal tape to any exposed joints and follow duct insulation guidelines to reduce air loss and boost overall system efficiency.
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Malfunctioning Air Conditioning Blower Motor or Capacitor
After a season of continuous use, essential components such as the blower motor and start capacitor can start to fail. As these parts deteriorate, airflow is reduced, making it harder for the system to circulate cool air effectively throughout the home. This type of failure is a common cause of late-season AC problems and often demands prompt attention to avoid a total system breakdown.
Signs of AC blower motor failure or capacitor issues include:
- Unusual humming or buzzing sounds
- Inconsistent or slow blower operation
- No airflow, even when the fan is set to run
If you notice these symptoms, professional HVAC electrical repair is necessary. A certified technician can assess the motor’s condition, replace the capacitor, or suggest upgrading to a high-efficiency blower assembly to restore optimal cooling performance.
Tackle Humidity Issues: Contact Skylands Energy Service to learn about dehumidification solutions that enhance comfort. Get in touch today!
When to Contact Skylands Energy Service for Professional HVAC Support
If your system persists in having issues despite basic troubleshooting, it’s time to contact Skylands Energy Service for expert help. Our HVAC diagnostic service utilizes tools like refrigerant gauges, airflow meters, and thermal imaging to pinpoint underlying problems precisely.
We provide end-of-season tune-up services to restore your system’s performance, boost efficiency, and prepare it for the rest of the summer and upcoming seasons. If repairs are no longer effective or become too expensive, our team can assist you with an AC replacement consultation to help you choose a high-efficiency system that aligns with your home’s needs and budget.
Trusted Air Conditioner Repair Experts: Rely on Skylands Energy Service for prompt, dependable AC repairs when you need them the most. Contact us today!
Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up: FAQs
How Do High Outdoor Temperatures Impact My AC’s End-of-Summer Efficiency?
When outdoor temperatures stay high, your air conditioner’s condenser faces difficulty in expelling heat, which causes refrigerant pressures to rise and reduces its cooling effectiveness. As a result, the system runs longer, consumes more energy, and puts additional strain on its components. Routine professional maintenance, such as coil cleaning and refrigerant level checks, ensures your system can efficiently handle the intense late-summer heat.
Will a Variable-Speed HVAC System Improve Cooling During the End of Summer?
Variable-speed compressors adjust their output based on your home’s cooling needs, running at lower speeds for longer durations. This results in more consistent temperatures, better dehumidification, and lower energy consumption. To achieve the best performance, consult an HVAC expert to properly size and install the ideal variable-speed system for your home.
Can High Indoor Humidity Reduce My AC’s Effectiveness?
Excess humidity indoors makes your AC work harder to remove moisture before cooling the air, leaving rooms feeling damp even if the thermostat is set correctly. To enhance dehumidification, try setting your fan to “Auto,” installing a whole-house moisture controller, or scheduling an HVAC assessment to ensure your system provides optimal comfort.
Keep Your AC Performing at Its Best: Book your end-of-summer service with Skylands Energy Service, your trusted HVAC professionals. Reach out today!
How Does Restricted Airflow in Ductwork Affect Cooling Efficiency?
Leaky or inadequately insulated ducts create pressure imbalances and reduce airflow at the vents, forcing your AC to work harder to cool each room. This raises energy bills and puts extra strain on the blower motor. Professional duct sealing and balancing help restore proper static pressure and airflow, ensuring your air conditioner operates at maximum efficiency.
Do Smart Thermostat Features Improve Late-Summer AC Performance?
Smart thermostats adapt to your cooling preferences, adjust settings based on occupancy or outdoor temperatures, and allow for remote control. These features help reduce unnecessary runtime and minimize strain during the hottest days. For seamless integration, reach out to an HVAC service provider offering comprehensive solutions and expert thermostat calibration.
Conclusion
Airflow restrictions, refrigerant loss, dirty coils, thermostat issues, and aging equipment are common causes of late-summer AC performance problems. These issues typically arise after months of use but can be addressed with the right care. Timely seasonal maintenance and focused repairs can restore your system’s cooling power and efficiency.
Stay comfortable through the heat. Reach out to Skylands Energy Service today for a complete system check, expert HVAC solutions, or professional upgrades in your area. Keep your home cool all season long.
Elevate Your Cooling Efficiency: Trust Skylands Energy Service to upgrade your system with high-efficiency HVAC solutions. Contact us today!
Contact Skylands Energy Service for Dependable HVAC Solutions
Skylands Energy Service offers top-notch heating and cooling services in Central New Jersey. Our certified HVAC technicians specialize in tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. With our extensive training and expertise, you can trust us to service your HVAC system with precision.
We pride ourselves on providing the region’s most competitive rates for HVAC services. Our maintenance services are designed to enhance comfort, improve energy efficiency, and reduce heating and cooling costs. Whether you need a repair or a complete system replacement, Skylands Energy Service will help you find the best solutions for your home and budget. We back our work with a solid satisfaction guarantee.
Contact Skylands Energy Service today to schedule your service appointment and get a free in-home consultation. Call now!
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more! To view our service area, click here.
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