Struggling AC? Why Your System Can’t Keep Up Late In The Season
As summer winds down, rising outdoor temperatures often push air conditioners to their limits, yet this is when many systems begin to falter. At Lawes Company, your HVAC experts in the Jersey Shore area, we help homeowners resolve end-of-summer AC issues before they affect comfort and efficiency.
This article explores the question, “Why is my AC not keeping up during the final weeks of the season?” From dirty components and thermostat inconsistencies to refrigerant loss and system fatigue, we break down the leading causes of late-season cooling problems and when to schedule professional service.
Restore Peak AC Performance: Trust Lawes Company for professional air conditioner repair and diagnostics. Contact us now!
Solving Late-Summer Cooling Issues: Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up?
Contents
- 1 Solving Late-Summer Cooling Issues: Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up?
- 1.1 Clogged HVAC Air Filters & Reduced AC Unit Airflow
- 1.2 Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leaks & Low Charge
- 1.3 Dirty AC Unit Evaporator & Condenser Coils
- 1.4 Undersized or Aging Air Conditioner Equipment
- 1.5 Improper HVAC Thermostat Settings & Calibration
- 1.6 Leaky HVAC Ducts & Poor Insulation
- 1.7 Failing Air Conditioning Blower Motor or Capacitor
- 2 When to Call Lawes Company for Professional HVAC Services
- 3 Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up: FAQs
- 3.1 How Can High Outdoor Temperatures Affect My AC’s End-of-Summer Performance?
- 3.2 Will Upgrading to a Variable-Speed HVAC System Improve Late-Season Cooling?
- 3.3 Can Increased Indoor Humidity Make My AC Feel Less Effective?
- 3.4 How Does Airflow Restriction in Ductwork Impact Cooling Performance?
- 3.5 Are Smart Thermostat Features Beneficial for Late-Summer AC Operation?
- 4 Conclusion
- 5 Contact Lawes Company for Reliable HVAC Services
As temperatures peak in late summer, many cooling systems start to show signs of wear and inefficiency. Understanding the specific reasons behind these issues can help you take targeted action before the heat becomes overwhelming.
Beat Late-Season Heat Waves: Partner with Lawes Company for comprehensive HVAC maintenance and tune-ups. Reach out today!
Clogged HVAC Air Filters & Reduced AC Unit Airflow
A dirty air filter is one of the most common causes of AC issues at the end of summer. When filters become packed with dust, pollen, and debris, they restrict airflow through the system. This airflow restriction reduces cooling efficiency and increases strain on the equipment.
As the system struggles to circulate air, indoor temperatures rise, and energy bills follow. Ignoring these effects of a dirty HVAC filter can lead to long-term damage and costly repairs.
Homeowners often notice a drop in airflow at the vents or inconsistent temperatures throughout the house. These are clear signs the filter needs attention.
During peak cooling months, replace pleated filters at least once every 30 days to maintain proper airflow and system performance. Timely filter replacement protects your AC and ensures consistent comfort during the hottest weeks of the season.
Air Conditioner Refrigerant Leaks & Low Charge
Repeated thermal expansion and contraction throughout the summer can weaken joints and fittings, leading to slow refrigerant leaks by the season’s end. These issues often cause longer cooling cycles, reduced cooling output, and visible ice buildup on the evaporator coil, common symptoms of low AC refrigerant that signal system imbalance. Warm air from vents is another warning sign of refrigerant loss.
Because handling refrigerant requires specialized tools and certification, only trained professionals should perform an AC recharge service. They can identify signs of refrigerant leaks, repair the affected components, and restore the system to its proper charge level for optimal performance.
Ensure Even Comfort Throughout Your Home: Rely on Lawes Company for expert duct sealing and airflow optimization. Call now!
Dirty AC Unit Evaporator & Condenser Coils
Throughout the cooling season, evaporator and condenser coils collect pollen, grass clippings, and other airborne particles. This buildup forms an insulating layer that restricts heat transfer, reducing the system’s ability to remove heat from your home. Dirty AC coils contribute to late-season cooling problems by forcing the unit to run longer while delivering less effective cooling.
To maintain performance, schedule professional coil cleaning at least once a year. For homeowners, light brushing or vacuuming of accessible coils can help between visits. These coil-cleaning practices are essential elements of effective condenser maintenance.
Undersized or Aging Air Conditioner Equipment
An undersized air conditioner may no longer meet your home’s cooling demands, especially after renovations, room additions, or insulation upgrades. When the system cannot handle the current load, it runs longer and struggles to cool the space, resulting in common end-of-summer AC issues. In other cases, an aging AC unit begins to lose efficiency after years of use, further contributing to reduced performance and rising indoor temperatures.
Watch for these signs of an undersized air conditioner or aging system:
- Frequent or short cycling
- Higher-than-usual energy bills
- Inconsistent or weak temperature control
It may be time to explore aging AC replacement options if these symptoms are present. A professional HVAC load calculation can confirm the correct system size. Upgrading to a unit with a higher SEER rating delivers improved cooling, increased efficiency, and better comfort—especially during peak summer heat.
Harness Smart Climate Control: Contact Lawes Company to install and configure your smart thermostat for efficient cooling. Call today!
Improper HVAC Thermostat Settings & Calibration
Incorrect thermostat settings often cause end-of-summer AC issues. Choosing the “On” fan mode instead of “Auto” allows for continuous airflow, which re-evaporates moisture and reduces overall dehumidification, thereby impacting comfort during humid late-season days.
Additionally, thermostat sensors can lose accuracy over time, leading to calibration drift. This causes the system to short-cycle or run inefficiently, wasting energy and stressing components.
To resolve these problems, revert the fan setting to “Auto,” replace outdated units, or install a programmable thermostat for better control. Proper thermostat settings for AC performance and timely thermostat recalibration can significantly improve efficiency and indoor comfort.
Leaky HVAC Ducts & Poor Insulation
High summer temperatures can cause ductwork to expand, which may open small gaps and lead to cooled air loss, especially in unconditioned areas like attics or crawlspaces. These leaks reduce system efficiency and contribute to persistent hot spots or uncomfortable rooms.
Signs of trouble include noticeable temperature differences near vents and increased airflow noise. To address these issues, schedule a professional HVAC duct leak repair to locate and seal problem areas.
In the meantime, mastic or metal tape should be applied to visible joints, and duct insulation tips should be followed to prevent cooled air loss and improve overall performance.
Maximize Energy Savings: Discover variable-speed AC solutions with Lawes Company for quieter, cost-effective operation. Contact us now!
Failing Air Conditioning Blower Motor or Capacitor
After a full season of continuous operation, critical components like the blower motor and start capacitor can begin to fail. As these parts weaken, airflow decreases, making it difficult for the system to distribute cool air effectively throughout the home. This type of failure commonly contributes to end-of-summer AC issues and often requires immediate attention to prevent complete system shutdown.
Warning signs of AC blower motor failure or capacitor issues include:
- Strange humming or buzzing noises
- Intermittent or sluggish blower operation
- No airflow even when the fan is set to run
If these symptoms occur, professional HVAC electrical repair is essential. A certified technician can test the motor’s condition, perform capacitor replacement for the AC system, or recommend an upgrade to a high-efficiency blower assembly to restore cooling performance.
Solve Humidity Challenges: Ask Lawes Company about dehumidification options that restore true comfort. Reach out today!
When to Call Lawes Company for Professional HVAC Services
If your system continues to struggle despite basic troubleshooting, it’s time to call Lawes Company for expert assistance. Our HVAC diagnostic service includes using refrigerant gauges, airflow meters, and thermal imaging to identify underlying issues accurately.
We offer end-of-season tune-up plans to restore performance, improve efficiency, and prepare your system for the remaining summer heat and the seasons ahead. If repairs prove ineffective or cost-prohibitive, our team can guide you through an AC replacement consultation, helping you select a high-efficiency system that fits your home’s needs and budget.
Dependable Air Conditioner Repair Company: Count on Lawes Company for fast, reliable AC repairs when you need them most. Call now!
Why Is My AC Not Keeping Up: FAQs
How Can High Outdoor Temperatures Affect My AC’s End-of-Summer Performance?
When outdoor temperatures remain elevated, your air conditioner’s condenser struggles to reject heat, causing refrigerant pressures to climb and reducing cooling capacity. The system must run longer, drawing more power and stressing components. Regular professional maintenance, including cleaning coils and checking refrigerant levels, ensures your HVAC solution can handle extreme late-summer heat.
Will Upgrading to a Variable-Speed HVAC System Improve Late-Season Cooling?
Variable-speed compressors automatically adjust their output to match your home’s cooling load, running at lower speeds for longer periods. This maintains more consistent temperatures, enhances dehumidification, and reduces energy consumption. For optimal results, consult an air conditioner repair company to size and install the right variable-speed system for your needs.
Can Increased Indoor Humidity Make My AC Feel Less Effective?
High indoor humidity forces your AC to remove moisture before lowering air temperature, which can leave rooms feeling muggy even when the thermostat setting is met. Improving dehumidification by setting your fan to “Auto,” adding a whole-house moisture controller, or scheduling an HVAC solutions assessment ensures your cooling system delivers true comfort.
Keep Your AC Running Strong: Schedule your end-of-summer service with Lawes Company, your local HVAC experts. Contact us today!
How Does Airflow Restriction in Ductwork Impact Cooling Performance?
Leaky or poorly insulated ducts lead to pressure imbalances and reduced airflow at your vents, making your AC work harder to cool each room. This increases energy bills and accelerates wear on the blower motor. Professional duct sealing and balancing restore proper static pressure and airflow, allowing your air conditioner to perform at peak efficiency.
Are Smart Thermostat Features Beneficial for Late-Summer AC Operation?
Smart thermostats learn your cooling preferences, adjust setpoints based on occupancy or outdoor temperature, and enable remote monitoring. These features prevent unnecessary runtime and reduce strain during peak heat. To integrate a smart control seamlessly, contact an air conditioner repair company that offers full HVAC solutions and expert thermostat calibration.
Conclusion
Airflow restrictions, refrigerant loss, dirty coils, thermostat problems, or aging equipment often cause late-summer AC performance issues. These common challenges result from months of wear and tear but can be resolved with proper attention and care. Timely seasonal AC maintenance and targeted repairs help restore your system’s cooling power and efficiency.
Don’t sweat through the heat—contact Lawes Company today for a full system check, professional HVAC solutions, or expert upgrades in the Jersey Shore area. Keep your cool all season long.
Upgrade to Advanced HVAC Solutions: Let Lawes Company enhance your cooling with high-efficiency system upgrades. Call us today!
Contact Lawes Company for Reliable HVAC Services
At Lawes Company, we provide top-tier heating and cooling services in the Jersey Shore area. Our company is staffed by certified HVAC technicians who excel in heating and cooling tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. Our technicians are not only highly trained but also bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to ensure your HVAC system is serviced with precision.
We pride ourselves on offering the most competitive rates for heating and cooling services in Jersey Shore. Our maintenance services are designed to enhance your comfort and increase energy efficiency, ultimately reducing your heating and cooling expenses. Whether you need a repair or a complete system replacement, Lawes Company will guide you to the best solutions that fit your needs and budget. We stand behind our work with a robust satisfaction guarantee.
Call Lawes Company today to schedule your service appointment and receive an in-home consultation. Call now!
Contact us now at (732) 741-6300 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.
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