What Causes Overheating When AC Is on in Riverside, CA?

If you have concerns about overheating when your AC is on, don't stress out — and don't sweat! Call Riverside's top heating and air conditioning contractor, Inland Empire Comfort, at 951-336-8709 for professional and timely assistance with all your AC system needs.

When an AC unit overheats, power breakers designed to prevent permanent damage activate to shut off the system's power. Typically, the system will only operate once the power has been manually reset.

Common symptoms accompanying overheating AC units are ice-covered condenser coils, reduced airflow, higher energy bills, burning odors, and standing water inside the unit and its drain pan. These symptoms typically result from the same problems that cause overheating when AC is on in Riverside, CA.

So what causes overheating when the AC is on?

Old, Dirty Air Filters

The most common culprits for overheating in Riverside are clogged and dirty air filters. Intake filters capture dust, pollen, and debris that could damage your AC unit and compromise interior air quality. Of course, filters restrict airflow, and when they become dirty, they place additional stress on the unit, as it has to work much harder to pull air into the system. 

Dirty or Cracked Condenser Coils

Condenser coils are found in the outside part of your AC unit. They discharge heat into the outdoor air, where the unit's fan cools the refrigerant and prepares it to be circulated indoors to absorb more heat. As dirt, vegetation, and debris build up around the condenser coil, it loses its ability to release heat efficiently, and your AC compressor could run until it overheats while attempting to keep up.

Low System Refrigerant

Your AC unit contains chemical refrigerants that operate like engine coolant to absorb heat from your indoor air. If the closed coolant system has any leaks, low refrigerant levels will lead to inefficient cooling and a compressor that has to work extra hard in an attempt to cool air. Overheating often results. 

Mechanical Damage or Poor Installation

Broken condenser fans and failing compressors often lead directly to system overheating. Units that are the wrong size for your needs or lack shade or adequate outside ventilation are also susceptible to overheating, especially in Riverside's hot and arid climate.

Call Inland Empire Comfort in Riverside, CA, for Professional Service of Your Overheating System

We have pointed out the importance of correct AC temperature and how several issues can cause systems to overheat when the AC is on. If your equipment is experiencing overheating problems, let our team come to your aid and help ensure your unit is functioning correctly.

Most AC units have an expected lifespan of around 10 years. During that time, every system should be regularly cleaned and serviced by the professionals at Inland Empire Comfort. 

Call 951-336-8709 today to have one of our expert Riverside, CA, technicians come out to assist with your cooling system. Check out our five-star ratings on Yelp and Google, and call on us with confidence!