It’s summertime, which means the temperatures are rising. And while that may mean spending more time outdoors and enjoying the warm weather, it can also mean dealing with higher than usual energy bills. But what happens when it gets so hot outside that your home’s air conditioning system just stops working?
It is possible for it to be too hot for an air conditioner to work. When the temperature outside reaches a certain point, the AC unit will shut down in order to prevent damage. So, if it’s a particularly hot day and your AC stops working, don’t panic! It’s just doing its job.
If you’re concerned about your AC unit during a heatwave you can make sure that the unit is properly serviced and maintained before the heat of summer hits.
What temperature is too hot for an air conditioner to work effectively?
Most air conditioners have a maximum temperature limit of around 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the outside temperature may never reach 115 degrees, your unit may get this hot if it is in direct sunlight and is working hard to keep your home cool.
Of course, every AC unit is different and some may be able to handle higher temperatures than others. If you’re unsure about your unit’s capabilities, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
Why do air conditioners stop working when it’s too hot outside ?
As we mentioned, air conditioners have a maximum temperature limit. When the temperature outside reaches this point, the AC unit will shut down in order to prevent damage.
The reason for this is that when an AC unit gets too hot, it puts strain on the compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant through the AC unit. If it gets too hot, the coolant can start to break down and cause damage to the compressor.
So, in order to protect your AC unit and prolong its lifespan, it will shut down when the temperature gets too high.
How can you cool your home down when the temperature is too high?
On a day that is particularly hot, you may want to save yourself the trouble of having your AC unit shut off by pumping your thermostat up a couple degrees. If it is over 100 degrees outside and you have your home set to “cool” at 70 degrees, you may be overworking your HVAC. Try bringing the temperature up just a few degrees to give your AC a
Another way to keep your home cool is by using fans. Ceiling fans and portable fans can help circulate the air in your home and make it feel cooler, even if the temperature isn’t actually lower.
Lastly, try to keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day. This will help block out the sun’s heat and make your home feel cooler.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long – without overworking your AC unit.
What to do if your air conditioner stops working in the middle of summer
If your air conditioner does stop working in the middle of summer, don’t panic! It’s likely that the unit just needs a break.
First, try raising the temperature on your thermostat. This will take some strain off of the unit and may help it to start working again.
If that doesn’t work, try turning the unit off for a few hours. This will give it a chance to cool down and reset.
If your AC unit still isn’t working, it’s best to call a professional for help. They will be able to diagnose the problem and get your unit up and running again in no time.
Don’t let a broken AC unit ruin your summer! Contact the professionals at Coastal Home Services and have your HVAC back up and running in no time.
Contact Coastal Home Services
If you are located on the East Coast of North Carolina and your AC unit has stopped working, contact us today! We are located in Morehead City and we service all of the surrounding area.
Our team of experienced professionals will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and get your unit back up and running in no time. We even offer emergency services so you’re never left in the heat!
Give us a call or fill out our online form to schedule a service today!
