By late summer in Arizona, your air conditioner has been working around the clock for months. The hottest days of the year put immense strain on your HVAC system, leading to an increase in AC breakdowns and emergency AC repairs.
Understanding why these issues happen and how to prevent them can help you avoid costly repairs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your system.
Why Late Summer in Greater Phoenix Is Tough on Your AC
1. Continuous Heavy Use
During the hottest months, your AC rarely gets a break. It works overtime to keep your home cool, which accelerates wear and tear on essential components like the compressor, fan motor, and capacitor.
2. Clogged Air Filters
Dust and debris accumulate quickly in Arizona’s dry climate. By late summer, many homeowners have filters that are clogged, forcing the AC to work harder and restricting airflow. This not only reduces efficiency but can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
Extended operation increases the chance of small refrigerant leaks developing. Low refrigerant levels reduce cooling performance and can cause the system to overheat.
4. Dirty Condenser Coils
Outdoor condenser units are exposed to dirt, dust, and even monsoon debris. When the coils are coated with grime, heat transfer is restricted, forcing the system to run longer and raising the risk of breakdown.
The Cost of Ignoring AC Maintenance
Delaying HVAC maintenance or repair in late summer can lead to bigger and more expensive issues. Minor problems like loose wiring, low refrigerant, or dirty coils can quickly turn into major system failures. A poorly maintained AC also uses more energy, increasing your utility bills during the months you rely on it most.
How to Prevent AC Breakdowns in Late Summer
- Schedule Mid-Season Maintenance – Most homeowners schedule their tune-up in spring, but scheduling an additional mid-summer inspection can help catch problems before they lead to an AC breakdown.
- Replace or Clean Filters Monthly – Even if your filter manufacturer says 60–90 days, in Phoenix’s dusty climate, monthly replacement during peak cooling season is best.
- Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear – Trim back bushes, remove debris, and hose down the condenser coils gently to maintain proper airflow.
- Install a Smart Thermostat – Smart thermostats help regulate temperatures more efficiently, preventing unnecessary strain on your system.
- Watch for Warning Signs – If your AC starts making unusual noises, blowing warm air, or cycling on and off more frequently, call for AC repair right away.
Why Choose Hansen Family Plumbing & Air
At Hansen Family Plumbing & Air, we understand how critical a reliable cooling system is in Arizona’s late summer heat. Our licensed technicians are experts in HVAC repair, AC maintenance, and new system installations. We pride ourselves on fast response times, honest recommendations, and fair pricing.
We offer:
- Thorough AC tune-ups
- Emergency AC repair services
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Friendly, experienced technicians who treat you like family
FAQs About Late Summer AC Breakdowns
1. Why does my AC run constantly in late summer?
When outdoor temperatures soar, your AC must work harder to remove heat from your home. Without proper maintenance, this extra workload can cause components to wear out faster.
2. Can I prevent AC breakdowns completely?
While no system is immune to failure, regular HVAC maintenance greatly reduces the risk and can extend your unit’s lifespan.
3. How often should I replace my AC filter?
During Arizona’s summer, replace your filter every 30 days to ensure optimal airflow and prevent system strain. There are other options for filters, such as AprilAire filters, that do not require monthly replacements. With enhanced technology, these filters are typically changed out once a year. Interested in learning more about these filters? Contact Hansen Family today for a free consultation!
4. Is late summer a bad time to replace an AC?
Not necessarily. While demand for AC repair and replacement is higher, upgrading before your system fails can help you avoid emergency costs.
5. What’s included in an AC maintenance visit from Hansen Family Plumbing & Air?
Our tune-ups include a complete system inspection, light cleaning of components, checking refrigerant levels, testing electrical connections, and ensuring your system is running at peak efficiency.
Stay Cool And Avoid Late Summer AC Breakdowns
Late summer doesn’t have to mean higher repair bills and stressful AC breakdowns. With the right maintenance and timely repairs, your system can run efficiently all season long.
Call Hansen Family Plumbing & Air today to schedule your AC maintenance or repair and keep your home cool, comfortable, and worry-free.
