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At the Jersey Shore, your air conditioning system works overtime in the summer—especially in rental properties and second homes. When your AC is running but still not cooling the house, it can feel like you're wasting energy and money with no relief. The good news: there are a few common reasons behind this issue, and most are fixable with the right care.
1. Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
Filters can become clogged with sand, dust, and debris faster than normal in coastal homes. A dirty filter restricts airflow and forces your system to work harder, often with poor results. It can also lead to frozen coils and system inefficiency.
Fix: Check and replace your filter every 1-3 months. In homes near the water, it's smart to check even more frequently during peak summer.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Low airflow from blocked filters or ductwork can cause the evaporator coils to freeze over. A frozen coil can't absorb heat properly, which means your system will run without cooling the air.
Fix: Turn off the system to allow coils to thaw. If freezing recurs, it could indicate a deeper airflow or refrigerant issue that needs professional attention.
3. Outdoor Unit Issues
The condenser unit outside your home plays a critical role in releasing heat from your system. At the shore, sand, yard debris, or objects stored near the unit can restrict airflow. Corrosion from salt air can also wear on the components.
Fix: Keep the area around the condenser clear, and rinse off salt buildup periodically. A technician should also inspect the unit annually for corrosion and wear.
4. Low Refrigerant or a Leak
If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t be able to effectively cool your home, even if it’s running constantly. Refrigerant levels don’t drop naturally—so if they’re low, there’s likely a leak.
Fix: You’ll need a licensed HVAC technician to inspect the system, locate any leaks, and recharge the refrigerant to proper levels.
5. Thermostat and Sensor Problems
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the system itself, but with the device controlling it. Misplaced thermostats, sensor malfunctions, or outdated controls can cause your AC to run at the wrong times—or never reach the correct temperature.
Fix: Make sure your thermostat is away from heat sources like windows or lamps. If it’s outdated, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart model for better control.
Why a Professional Check-Up Matters
If you're unsure what's wrong or don’t have time to troubleshoot, a professional inspection is the smartest move. Budd’s Plumbing & HVAC offers a comprehensive $149 A/C Check-Up designed for shore homeowners.
This service includes:
- Full system inspection, including indoor and outdoor components
- Filter check and replacement recommendation
- Coil and condenser evaluation
- Refrigerant level check
- Thermostat and control settings review
- Efficiency analysis
- Drain line and electrical connection check
- Recommendations for minor repairs before they become major problems
It’s a proactive step that can save you money, prevent breakdowns, and extend the life of your system—especially in salt-heavy air and high-humidity conditions typical of Cape May and Atlantic County.
Your Local Experts for Coastal HVAC
The shore presents unique HVAC challenges. Whether you're a full-time resident or own a second home or rental property, Budd’s Plumbing & HVAC understands what your system needs to stay cool, efficient, and reliable.
Don’t wait until your system fails in the middle of a heatwave.
Call 609-465-3759 to schedule your $149 A/C Check-Up, or visit buddsplumbing.com to request service.
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