In the Little Rock area, August often brings the hottest, most intense temperatures of the year. For business owners, that extreme heat doesn’t just make things uncomfortable, it can put serious stress on your commercial HVAC system. One of the most common issues we see during this time is overheating commercial AC units.
An overheated system isn’t just inefficient, it can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and uncomfortable working conditions that disrupt your business. Let’s dive into what causes overheating and how to prevent this issue as we approach the tail end of summer.
Why Do Commercial AC Units Overheat?
Your commercial air conditioner works hard to maintain a comfortable indoor environment, especially when outdoor temperatures soar. But if the system is overworked, poorly maintained, or undersized for the space, it can quickly begin to overheat.
Some of the most common causes of overheating commercial AC units include:
- Dirty condenser coils: The AC condenser coil is in the outdoor unit of an air conditioning system. Its primary function is to release the heat that was absorbed by the evaporator coil. When the coils are covered in dirt or debris, the system can’t release heat efficiently, causing it to overheat.
- Low refrigerant levels: Without enough refrigerant, the system struggles to cool properly, increasing internal pressure and temperature.
- Blocked airflow: Clogged air filters or obstructed vents can restrict airflow and cause the system to overwork.
- Lack of routine maintenance: Skipping professional AC service checks allows minor issues to grow into major problems, especially at the end of summer when your system has already been working harder for months. Without proper upkeep, components can wear down, airflow can become restricted, and efficiency can plummet, all of which contribute to overheating commercial AC units.
Tips to Prevent Overheating Commercial AC Units
To avoid costly breakdowns and keep your business running smoothly, it’s important to take proactive steps. Here are some effective tips to help prevent overheating commercial AC units during the late summer heat.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
As mentioned above, routine HVAC maintenance is key to preventing overheating commercial AC units. A qualified HVAC technician can inspect your system, clean essential components, and identify potential problems before they lead to failure.
2. Keep Coils Clean
As stated, dirty condenser coils are one of the top culprits behind overheating. Make sure outdoor units are free of grass, leaves, and debris, and have coils cleaned regularly to ensure proper heat transfer.
3. Replace Air Filters Frequently
Clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder than necessary. Replace filters every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and your indoor air quality needs. The ideal frequency can also vary based on the age of your HVAC system, the number of people in the building, and whether your space generates more dust or allergens.
4. Monitor Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant doesn’t just affect cooling efficiency, it can damage your compressor and lead to overheating. Have a professional check refrigerant levels and recharge if needed.
5. Don’t Ignore Early Warning Signs
Strange noises, uneven cooling, or increased energy bills can all point to underlying issues. Addressing these warning signs early can prevent more serious problems down the line.
6. Consider System Upgrades
If your current unit is outdated or too small for your space, it may be time for an upgrade. A properly sized and energy efficient system is less likely to overheat and more capable of handling Arkansas’s late summer heat.
Protect Your Investment with Professional HVAC Support
Overheating commercial AC units are a serious concern during the hottest part of the year, but with proactive care, you can keep your business cool, comfortable, and productive. Don’t wait until a breakdown disrupts your day, take steps now to prevent overheating and extend the life of your HVAC system.
For expert HVAC service and support, contact Airmasters Heating and Air Conditioning. We proudly serve Little Rock and the surrounding areas with reliable commercial AC installation, maintenance, and 24/7 HVAC repair. Let us help you beat the heat and protect your business all year long.
