You are viewing Champaign, IL.
When temperatures in Bloomington and Champaign soar into the 90s and beyond, your air conditioner works harder than ever to keep your home comfortable. But with that extra demand comes a common concern: Can your AC overheat during extreme summer heat? The short answer is yes—and it’s more common than you might think. At Edelman, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to explain how overheating happens, how to prevent it, and when to call us for AC repair in Bloomington, IL.
What Causes an AC Unit to Overheat?
Your air conditioner is designed to handle high temperatures, but during intense heat waves, several factors can lead to overheating:
- Clogged Air Filters: When filters are dirty, airflow is restricted, forcing the system to work harder to cool your home.
- Dirty Condenser Coils: The outdoor unit relies on clean coils to release heat. When these coils are covered in dirt or debris, heat can’t escape efficiently.
- Low Refrigerant Levels: A refrigerant leak reduces the system’s cooling ability, making it run longer and overheat.
- Electrical Component Failure: Failing capacitors or motors can increase the risk of system overload and overheating.
- Poor Ventilation Around the Outdoor Unit: When the unit can’t “breathe,” it traps heat and stresses the compressor.
Over time, these issues can cause the system to trip the circuit breaker—or worse, lead to a costly breakdown.
How to Prevent AC Overheating
The best way to avoid overheating is through regular preventative care and good habits during the summer months. Here’s how:
- Schedule Routine Maintenance: At Edelman, we offer comprehensive AC service that includes coil cleaning, filter replacement, refrigerant checks, and more. Annual tune-ups are your first line of defense.
- Replace Air Filters Monthly: Especially during peak summer use, a clean filter ensures optimal airflow.
- Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear: Trim back any grass, weeds, or shrubs that may be crowding the condenser unit. Leave at least two feet of clearance around it.
- Use a Programmable Thermostat: Avoid setting your thermostat too low on extremely hot days. Gradual cooling helps reduce strain on your system.
- Stay Alert for Warning Signs: Unusual noises, weak airflow, and frequently tripped breakers are all signs your system may be struggling.
What to Do If Your AC Overheats
If your system shuts off unexpectedly or the breaker keeps tripping, your AC may already be overheating. Here’s what to do:
- Turn Off the Unit: Give your system time to cool down and prevent further damage.
- Check the Air Filter: A quick replacement might solve the issue if airflow is restricted.
- Inspect the Outdoor Unit: Clear away any debris that might be obstructing ventilation.
- Call Edelman for Service: Our trained HVAC technicians are available for same-day service in both Bloomington and Champaign. We’ll diagnose the issue and get your home back to cool comfort fast.
Protect Your Comfort With Expert AC Service
Don’t wait for a breakdown during the hottest week of summer. Prevent overheating issues before they start by scheduling a professional AC inspection with Edelman. Whether you’re in Bloomington or Champaign, our experienced team is here to keep your cooling system running smoothly all season long.
Edelman Delivers air conditioning repair! Contact our team today.