Each year we receive calls from customers that report that their a/c unit isn’t keeping up. A lot of calls come in during periods of high heat and humidity conditions. 

Before we go any further, check your thermostat. Do you have it set below 72 degrees? Just because your thermostat will go there doesn’t mean that it will ever make it.

A thermostat set for 68 is too low and you are causing several negative things to happen.

First, you are causing your system to work overtime in high gear. This can cause damage to your system and potentially to overheat. (We love your business but are you ready for the repair bills.)  Next, you are using huge amounts of electricity which in turn means high electric bills. The third negative is that you can cause your system to freeze up. A/C systems need to cycle to run at maximum efficiency. If you are pushing the unit so much that it doesn’t cycle, you are risking turning your compressor into a big popsicle. This isn’t a quick fix either. We cannot do any repairs for a few hours at a minimum, or possibly, until the next day. The unit has to thaw out completely before we can touch it.

Your A/C system is not designed to turn your home into a walk in cooler nor refrigerator. 

The best temperature range to set it for in the hot times is 74-78 degrees. Also, pay attention to what your system is doing. If it runs constantly, check your thermostat and see if you have it set too cold. If it’s not set too cold, you should call for service. If it is set too cold, turn your thermostat up until you get it to a point where it cools and cycles off.