Why Do ACs Struggle to Cool a Home in Extreme Heat?

Rooms often fail to achieve adequate cooling when outdoor temperatures climb above 95°F, according to air conditioner performance standards. 

Air conditioners operate most efficiently within specific temperature ranges, but their performance can be hindered by inadequate insulation, undersized units, and dirty filters. 

By understanding these challenges, homeowners can address issues with reliable AC repair services by Beltway Air Conditioning & Heating in Arbutus before the heat arrives. 

Why AC Units Struggle in Heat

The ability of air conditioners to achieve comfortable indoor levels may be reduced during extreme hot conditions. 

Here are some of the most common reasons why AC units can’t keep up during a heatwave—and what you can do about it.

1. Your AC Has a Cooling Capacity Limit

Every air conditioning system has a maximum cooling capacity. This capacity is determined by factors such as the size of your home, insulation levels, and the climate where you live. When the temperature outside exceeds what your AC was designed to handle, it struggles to keep up.

What You Can Do:

• Use fans to help circulate cool air more efficiently.
• Close blinds and curtains to block out heat from the sun.
  Reduce indoor heat sources by limiting the use of ovens, stoves, and other heat-producing appliances during peak hours.

2. Heat Gain Overwhelms the System

Heat gain happens when external heat enters your home and counteracts your AC’s cooling efforts. This can occur through windows, doors, walls, or even through a lack of insulation in the attic. The more heat your home absorbs, the harder your AC has to work to remove it.

Common Sources of Heat Gain:

• Direct sunlight through windows
• Poor attic insulation allowing heat to seep in
• Hot air entering through gaps and leaks around doors and windows
• Unshaded patios and driveways radiating heat toward your home

What You Can Do:

• Improve insulation in your attic and walls to minimize heat transfer.
• Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and vents.
• Install reflective window films or solar screens to block excess sunlight.
• Consider using awnings or exterior shades to reduce heat absorption.

3. Humidity Makes It Harder to Cool

When humidity is high, your body struggles to cool itself through sweating because the moisture in the air slows down evaporation. Similarly, your AC has to work harder to remove moisture from the air before it can effectively cool your home.

Signs Your AC Is Struggling With Humidity:

• The air inside feels sticky or muggy.
• Condensation forms on windows and other cool surfaces.
  The AC runs constantly but still doesn’t feel cool enough.

What You Can Do:

• Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels indoors.
• Run exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove humidity.
• Make sure your AC filter is clean, as a clogged filter can affect moisture removal.

4. Your AC Unit Is Too Small for the Space

If your AC unit is undersized for your home, it won’t have enough power to cool effectively in extreme heat. A properly sized AC unit is crucial for maintaining comfort. If it’s too small, it will run continuously without adequately cooling the space.

How to Tell If Your AC Is Too Small:

• It struggles to reach your desired temperature on hot days.
• It never cycles off, running non-stop.
• Some rooms feel much warmer than others.

What You Can Do:

• Have an HVAC professional evaluate your system to determine if it’s the right size.
• Consider upgrading to a more powerful unit if your current AC is too small.
• Use zoned cooling or portable AC units to supplement cooling in specific areas.

5. The AC System Needs Maintenance

A poorly maintained AC system won’t function efficiently, making it more difficult to cool your home in extreme heat. Dust buildup, clogged filters, and refrigerant leaks all reduce performance.

Common Maintenance Issues That Affect Cooling:

• Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow, making your AC work harder.
• Low refrigerant levels prevent the system from cooling effectively.
• Dirty condenser coils reduce heat dissipation.
• Blocked air vents limit airflow distribution.

What You Can Do:

• Change your air filter regularly (every 1-3 months).
• Schedule professional AC maintenance at least once a year.
• Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris and vegetation for proper airflow.

6. Your Ductwork May Be Leaking

If your home has central air conditioning, the ductwork plays a crucial role in distributing cool air. However, if there are leaks, gaps, or poor insulation in your ducts, a significant portion of the cooled air could be lost before it even reaches your rooms.

Signs of Leaky Ductwork:

• Some rooms feel warmer than others.
• Higher-than-normal energy bills.
• Weak airflow from vents.

What You Can Do:

• Have your ductwork inspected and sealed if leaks are found.
• Ensure duct insulation is in good condition to prevent heat gain.
• Check for disconnected or crushed ducts in attics and crawl spaces.

7. The Outdoor Unit Is Overheating

In extreme heat, the condenser coil can struggle to disperse heat, making it harder for your AC to cool the air.

What Causes Overheating?

• Dirt and debris buildup on the coils.
• Insufficient airflow due to blocked vents.
• Nearby structures or plants restricting airflow.

What You Can Do:

• Clean the outdoor condenser unit to remove dirt and debris.
• Trim plants and bushes at least two feet away from the unit.
• Ensure proper airflow around the unit by removing any obstructions.

Stay Cool with Expert AC Solutions!

Don’t let extreme heat leave you uncomfortable. If your AC is struggling to keep up, Beltway Air Conditioning & Heating in Arbutus is here to help. Get in touch today to schedule your AC service!

Beltway Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing

1587 Sulphur Spring Rd #109, Arbutus, MD 21227

+14437271399