Q. During the day, my air conditioner cycles on and off normally. But when the sun goes down, it runs constantly. We keep it set at 75 degrees during the day. However in early evening, it becomes so cold in the house, I must set it higher to get it to stop. Then after a period of time, it becomes so warm in the house, I must set it lower again. I had it cleaned last year and the contractor added coolant.
Lawrence MacDonald, Oak Lawn
A. Typically, appliances have an average life of about 15 years and should be cleaned regularly for optimum operation. If there was a need to add coolant to the unit, there must be a leak, said George Lauer, of MEL-0-AIR in Wheaton. The coolant circulates within a closed system and should never need to be filled. “If there’s a leak, you need to find and repair it,” Lauer said.
Ideally, a homeowner sets the thermostat at one temperature and doesn’t need to change it for days or weeks. But your thermostat may be in a poor location for establishing a comfortable temperature. A thermostat should be about 5 feet above floor level in the main living area and away from the kitchen. Be careful not to place it near a TV or another appliance that produces heat or in any spot that can trick sensors, such as in a draft or direct sunlight. Also, a thermostat may need to be recalibrated and cleaned; however, with an older model, it may be easier to replace it.
Also, some air conditioners do work harder in the evening. By the end of a hot day, the attic has built up a lot of heat, up to 180 degrees, so the air conditioner works to cool the house. By morning, the house has cooled, and the unit will cycle less frequently, he said.
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