
Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Won’t Shut Off
- Check Your Thermostat Your thermostat tells your air conditioner what temperature it needs to achieve based on your settings. You may just have your air conditioner set to a very cold temperature. ...
- Defective Thermostat If your AC compressor won’t turn off even after a warmer temperature is set, you may have a defective thermostat. ...
- Broken Temperature Sensor ...
- Stuck Compressor Contactor ...
- Frozen Air Conditioner ...
What happens if the air conditioner never turns off?
When your air conditioning system keeps running and never seems to shut off, the problem could be linked to a number of malfunctioning components – frozen evaporator coils, a clogged air filter, a bad electrical relay switch that needs to be replaced, the fan blowing constantly, dirty condenser coils, a bad thermostat, or other problem with your HVAC system.
Why is your air conditioner not turning on?
- Your evaporator or condenser is dirty. If this appliance shuts off repeatedly and/or inadequately cools your home, your evaporator is dirty. ...
- The weather is too hot. You can't function when the weather is more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and neither can your air conditioner. ...
- There’s a faulty part. ...
Why does my air conditioner not turn on?
Why is My Air Conditioner Fan Not Working?
- Reasons the Central Air Conditioner Fan Is Not Working. ...
- Check Your Thermostat. ...
- Circuit Breaker is Tripped. ...
- Air Filter is Blocked. ...
- Broken Fan Blade. ...
- Burnt Out Condenser Fan Motor. ...
- Frozen Evaporator Coil. ...
- Compressor is Not Working. ...
- Malfunctioning Run Capacitor. ...
When should you turn on your air conditioner?
When Is The Best Time To Turn ‘ON’ Your Air Conditioner
- Shortcuts:
- Keep the AC turned ‘ON’. According to Jennifer Thorne, a program director at the American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEE), it’s more economical to leave your AC turned ‘ON’ during ...
- Upgrade the AC thermostat. ...
- Leverage ceiling fans. ...
- Control room temperature. ...
- Maintain cleanliness of your AC. ...

Why does my AC keep running even when off?
Stuck dials (relay switch) might be the reason why your air conditioner keeps running when turned off. This is usually the case for air conditioners with rotary dial thermostats. Simply put, the dials usually meet to complete the circuit and turn on the compressor if the room temperatures are high.
Why is AC constantly running?
One of the most common reasons an air conditioner runs constantly is restricted airflow. Your AC needs a certain amount of airflow in order to supply your home with cool air. If something is blocking the airflow to your AC, your system will run longer in an effort to bring in a sufficient amount of air.
How do I get my air conditioner to turn off?
0:311:53How to quickly turn off central heat and air conditioner - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou get two middle fingers on it. That right there shuts off the power to your central heat and air.MoreYou get two middle fingers on it. That right there shuts off the power to your central heat and air. That will cut it off very quickly and just lay that somewhere play it there somewhere.
Is it OK for your AC to run all day?
It's normal for an AC to run for multiple hours per day. However, there is a difference between keeping your AC on throughout the day and the compressor running all day. Once your space reaches your desired temperature, your AC system, or more specifically, the compressor, should stop running automatically.
How long can an AC run continuously?
An air conditioner is a device that is designed to maintain a set room temperature all day long. There is no such thing as the appliance will melt, or get damaged if run continuously for 24 hours. In fact, you can run your AC constantly for an entire week.
Should I turn off my AC if it is not cooling?
So, if your air conditioner isn't cooling, and you suspect a refrigerant leak, or if you've checked the air filter and thermostat to no avail, yes, you should shut your air conditioner off and call us right away.
How do I reset my AC thermostat?
Here are the step-by-step reset instructions:Turn your thermostat off by switching it to the off position.Find the breaker that powers your HVAC system and turn it off.Wait 30 seconds and turn the breaker back on.Turn your thermostat back on.
How do you know a thermostat is bad?
7 Ways to Tell Your Thermostat Is BrokenThermostat Has No Power. ... AC or Furnace Won't Turn On. ... Heater or AC Won't Turn Off. ... Thermostat Doesn't Match Room Temperature. ... Thermostat Doesn't Respond. ... Short Cycling. ... Thermostat Forgets Programmed Settings.
Is it normal for AC to run all day in 100 degree weather?
However, if it is scorching hot outside and the temperature is above 80 degrees, your AC unit may run for the whole day. In some cases, it may never turn off! HVAC experts say that it's completely fine for your AC to run all day.
What happens if AC runs too long?
As long as your AC is pumping out cold air and isn't making any unusual noises, running all day won't cause any disaster. In fact, a constantly running air conditioner is a healthier air conditioner than one that has to start and stop over and over again. Turning on and off causes extra wear and tear.
Why is my AC not turning off?
The best way to check if your thermostat is responsible for the AC not turning off is to set it to room temperature or slightly above. If everything is working correctly, the AC should turn off since it’s reached the desired temperature.
Why is my thermostat not reaching the temperature?
This irritating snag might be because the temperature is set too low, or because there is some other fault with the AC itself.
How to test if AC coils are bad?
You can test if this is the issue by simply checking your condenser coils for dirt and debris. If they haven’t been cleaned recently, wipe the filters down, ensuring they’re clean before retesting your AC.
How does AC work?
Your AC works by passing air over condenser coils which remove the heat from the air. If these condenser coils are dirty, they can’t cool air as effectively. The extra layer of grit pushes your AC to work harder to cool the air down.
Can a fan be operated independently?
The fan attached to the AC unit can either work independently of it or only when told to by the thermostat. Many air conditioning units have a fan limit switch near the blower that allows for a manual override. When this override is engaged, the fan will continue running, regardless of what the thermostat’s instructions are.
Can an air conditioner break?
Air conditioners are like all other machines in that they can, and will, break at some point. Sometimes you can repair the issue with a minor fix, while other times you may need a more professional touch.
Why does my air conditioner run continuously?
As debris builds up on the coils, the air conditioner will become less efficient, causing the air conditioner to work harder to cool down. If the coils are significantly dirty, the air conditioner will not be able to maintain the proper temperature, and the compressor will run continuously in an attempt to cool the room.
How to tell if thermostat is defective?
If the thermostat is defective, it may cause the compressor to run continuously. To determine if the thermostat is defective, set the air conditioner to cooling and then use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity while the air conditioner is set to cooling, replac...
What does continuity mean on thermostat?
If the thermostat has continuity all the time, this indicates that it is shorted out and should be replaced. (Note: Some thermostats may also control a heater and, as a result, will have three... terminals. Refer to your air conditioner’s wiring diagram for more information.) Required Part.
What is the main control board on an air conditioner?
The main control board provides voltage to all of the components of the air conditioner. If there is a problem with the control board, it might not stop providing power to the compressor. Before you replace the main control board, make sure you check more commonly defective parts.
Can a temperature control board stop a compressor?
If there is a problem with the control board, it might not stop providing power to the compressor. However, this is almost never the case. Before you replace the temperature control board, make sure you check more commonly defective parts.
Why won't my air conditioner turn off?
However, if the contactor isn’t working fine then the air conditioner compressor won’t turn off. Even though the thermostat might turn off the compressor still keeps running. That happens because a heated contactor can lead to several issues. Such as the contactors sticking together or getting shut in a closed state.
Why won't my AC turn off?
Malfunctioning Thermostat. This is the most common reason why your AC won’t turn off at set temp . A thermostat is a crucial part of your air conditioning system. This controls the whole temperature element of the machine. A defective thermostat may be a cause that your ac isn’t turning off at a set temperature.
Why Air Conditioner Keeps Running When Turned Off?
Frankly, no one likes to pay the extra electricity bill. Also, a running air conditioner means a colder room temperature.
What does it mean when a compressor is not working?
Such as the contactors sticking together or getting shut in a closed state. This means it doesn’t work well and the compressor is still running. When the contactor can’t perform well it leads to malfunction in the condenser. The function of the contactor is to interrupt or disconnect power to the condenser.
What is the function of contactors in an air conditioner?
The function of the contactor is to interrupt or disconnect power to the condenser. So, failure to that keeps the condenser running hence the air conditioner keeps running as well. You might be wondering what kind of problematic wiring your ac might have all of a sudden.
How to avoid contactor issues?
To avoid contactor issues, you can simply buy a commercial-grade contactor. They are more expensive but they can prevent this problem from happening.
Why does my AC keep running?
When there is too much ice around the evaporator coil the ac can’t reach its temperature goal. This leads to an incomplete cooling cycle so your air conditioner keeps running. And having too much ice clumped up on that area means there is a refrigerant leak in the air conditioner.
Why won't my air conditioner shut off?
If your air conditioner doesn’t shut off even though the set temperature has been reached, and continues to blow cold air, you may have a problem with the thermostat. The rotary dial thermostat or temperature control has a set of internal electrical contacts that supply power to the compressor circuit, and also uses a capillary tube ...
Why is my window air conditioner blowing cold air?
If your air conditioner is continually blowing cold air and doesn’t shut off even though the set temperature has been reached, you may have a problem with the control board. Modern window air conditioners often use an Electronic Control Board, sometimes referred to as the PCB, to control the functions of the individual components of the unit.
What is the PCB on a window air conditioner?
Modern window air conditioners often use an Electronic Control Board, sometimes referred to as the PCB, to control the functions of the individual components of the unit. A sensor device called a thermistor is mounted near the front of the evaporator and is used to monitor the room air temperature.
Why is my compressor on even after temperature?
If the compressor or the circulating fan and compressor remain on even after the temperature has been reached, you may have a defective relay on the board or the processor circuitry on the board may be at fault. In either case you will have to replace the complete control board.
What happens if the contacts weld or stick closed?
If the contacts weld or stick closed, the compressor will continue to run regardless of the temperature sensed by the bulb at the evaporator. Inspect the sensor bulb for any signs of damage before condemning the temperature control.
Why Won’t My Air Conditioner Shut Off?
If your air conditioner won’t shut off, an issue in one of the following categories is likely the cause behind the conditions you are experiencing.
How to fix an air conditioner that won't turn off?
1. Change the Thermostat Settings. Make sure the thermostat is appropriately set to stop air conditioner operation.
Why does my air conditioner blower fan only run during the day?
Normally, a blower fan only runs during a cooling cycle to circulate cool air from room to room. When the fan is left on all hours of the day, it’s possible for a homeowner to mistake its operation with the actual cooling unit and think that the air conditioner won’t shut off.
How long does a thermostat last?
A thermostat has a useful life of around 10 years. As time goes on, dirt can collect on temperature sensors, causing the thermostat to misread room temperature – as such, the thermostat may leave your air conditioner running after it should have ended a cooling cycle.
What happens when you close the vents in your home?
If vents in your home are closed, open the supply vents in every room. This allows the air conditioner to deliver the proper amount of cooling for the entire home, and no air backs up in the duct system where pressure can impact comfort and temperature balance.
Why does my air conditioner keep going on?
Inside the condenser unit and indoor equipment, there are a number of electrical components and connections that can malfunction, causing an air conditioner to remain on. A relay switch or capacitor stuck in a closed position continues to let the compressor or other vital components receive power.
Why does my air conditioner revolve at a lower speed?
Grime and dirty buildup on the blower’s fan blades can cause it to revolve at a lower speed, impacting the air conditioner’s cooling capabilities. Use these instructions to clean this important component:
Why won't my air conditioner shut off?
This is an issue that you’ll want to solve as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary energy consumption, not to mention damage to your system.
What Causes an AC Unit to Not Shut Off?
There are several things that can cause your air conditioner outdoor unit to continually run.
Why is my thermostat wire damaged?
The wire can get damaged from a weed eater/weed whacker, mice chewing on the cable or some other cause . To check the thermostat cable, disconnect it from the thermostat and your system, and check for continuity. With the wires disconnected and separated, you should have no continuity.
What happens if you let your ice system run?
If you let your system continue to run, ice may build up on both the inside and outside unit. You eventually shut off the outdoor unit by turning off the circuit breaker. This problem may be periodic.
Can a thermostat send a signal to an outside unit?
The thermostat could be sending a signal to the outdoor unit even when it is not supposed to.
Can an air conditioner cause headaches?
We know that an improperly performing air conditioning system can cause headaches. Thankfully, we have more than 20 years of experience repairing air conditioners. Our technicians will get to the root of the problem quickly and efficiently. Contact Bigham’s today for trustworthy and reputable service.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Turning On?
If your air conditioning system just isn’t turning on then we suggest you run through a few things before calling in an HVAC expert:
Why does my AC stop working?
Short cycling is when your air conditioner turns on and off again in very short bursts without completing a full cooling cycle. When filters are blocked your AC unit has to work harder, creating higher energy bills and unevenly cooling your home. It may even cause your air conditioning system to stop working.
Why Is My Air Conditioning Fan Not Working?
If your air conditioning fan isn’t working your HVAC system won’t cool your home.
Why Is My Air Conditioner is Making Noise?
Rattling or banging could mean something has come loose, while buzzing often means you have an electrical issue. Any kind of persistent noise is a cry for help from your air conditioning unit. Turn off your AC and call an HVAC professional to come out and assess your system for issues.
What does it mean when your AC makes a rattling noise?
Rattling or banging could mean something has come loose, while buzzing often means you have an electrical issue. Any kind of persistent noise is a cry for help from your air conditioning unit. Turn off your AC and call an HVAC professional to come out and assess your system for issues.
How do I troubleshoot an air conditioner?
No matter what type of system you have – central, mini-split, ductless, or heat pump – there are commonalities between the types of AC systems that our troubleshooting guide covers. If your air conditioning system just isn’t turning on then we suggest you run through a few things before calling in an HVAC expert: 1 Make sure the outdoor breaker fuse is positioned correctly 2 Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker 3 Confirm that your thermostat is switched on 4 Check for a clogged air filter 5 Check your condensate pump for proper operation
How to fix a clogged AC?
Make sure the outdoor breaker fuse is positioned correctly. Check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker. Confirm that your thermostat is switched on. Check for a clogged air filter. Check your condensate pump for proper operation. If you check these and all is in order then read on for other solutions to AC problems.
What happens when you turn off the AC unit after cooling?
After cooling the air in the home, once the thermostat reaches the user’s maximum temperature , the AC unit will stop, and a signal will be sent once again to the AC fan relay to deactivate the fan.
Why does the Fan Keep Running On My Air Conditioner?
It’s usually easy to tell when an AC unit is running – air can be felt coming from the vents , and the sound of the AC fan moving air through the ventilation system is distinctive.
What Does the AC Fan Do?
To control the temperature and air quality in a home, an AC unit must constantly move large volumes of air.
Why is my thermostat relay stuck?
Some relays can get stuck in the position because of humidity or corrosion.
What happens when the thermostat reaches the user-set temperature in the AC settings?
When the thermostat reaches the user-set temperature in the AC settings, the refrigeration unit (including the condenser outside the home) activates. The control system sends a signal to a relay switch that turns on the AC fan. The relay switch is what allows power to reach the fan.
How to fix AC fan that is not cooling?
If the fan is running without cooling, check the mode setting on the AC thermostat control to see if it’s set to “fan” or “fan-only.” Switching off the unit or setting it back to automatic mode should solve the problem. Note that if you’re switching to auto, you may have to wait until the thermostat temperature is reached before the unit turns off.
Why does my fan run but not cool?
If you can hear the fan running and you can feel air coming out of the vent, but the air is not cooled, that could mean that the fan-only switch is on. It is common for users to accidentally turn on that feature to realize that it must be turned off manually.
