ac installer los angelesLos Angeles heat waves are becoming more intense and frequent. Last summer, temperatures soared past 115°F in some neighborhoods, leaving thousands of residents with broken air conditioning systems and sky-high energy bills. If your AC unit has been struggling to keep up during these extreme weather events, you’re not alone.
The problem isn’t just that it’s hot outside. There are specific technical reasons why air conditioning in Los Angeles, fail when we need them most. Understanding these issues can help you prepare for the next heat wave and avoid the discomfort of a broken system when temperatures spike.
This post will explain the three main reasons your AC struggles during extreme heat, what you can do to prevent problems, and how to know when it’s time to call for professional help.
The Real Culprits Behind AC Failures
System Sizing: When Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Most homeowners assume a larger air conditioning unit will cool their home faster and more effectively. This assumption often leads to oversized systems that create more problems than they solve.
An oversized AC unit cycles on and off too frequently. During LA’s heat waves, this short cycling prevents the system from running long enough to remove humidity from your home. The result? Your house feels cold and clammy rather than comfortably cool.
On the flip side, an undersized system runs continuously during extreme heat but never reaches your desired temperature. The unit works harder, uses more energy, and wears out faster. Many older homes in LA have undersized systems that were installed decades ago when heat waves were less severe.
Load calculations determine the right size system for your home. These calculations consider factors like:
- Square footage and ceiling height
- Number of windows and their orientation
- Insulation quality
- Local climate patterns
- Number of occupants
A properly sized system should run in longer cycles during normal weather and be able to maintain your desired temperature even when outdoor temperatures exceed 100°F.
Insulation: The Hidden Problem in LA Homes
Poor insulation is one of the most overlooked causes of AC struggles during heat waves. Many Los Angeles homes were built before modern insulation standards, and even newer homes sometimes have inadequate insulation in key areas.
Your attic is the biggest culprit. During a heat wave, attic temperatures can reach 150°F or higher. Without proper insulation, this heat radiates down into your living spaces, forcing your AC to work overtime.
Common insulation problems include:
- Insufficient attic insulation (less than R-30)
- Gaps around light fixtures and vents
- Compressed or damaged insulation
- Missing insulation in walls facing west or south
Ductwork insulation is equally important. If your ducts run through unconditioned spaces like attics or crawl spaces, poorly insulated ducts can lose 20-30% of their cooling capacity before the air reaches your rooms.
The Domino Effect of Maintenance Issues
Small maintenance problems become major failures during heat waves. A slightly dirty filter or a refrigerant leak that barely affects performance in mild weather can cause complete system failure when temperatures soar.
Dirty evaporator coils reduce heat transfer efficiency. When your system can’t absorb heat effectively, it runs longer and works harder without achieving the desired cooling.
Low refrigerant levels prevent your system from absorbing and releasing heat properly. This forces the compressor to work harder, potentially leading to costly repairs or complete system failure.
Electrical problems become more pronounced during extended periods of high demand. Loose connections, worn contactors, and aging capacitors often fail during heat waves when the system is working hardest.
How Heat Waves Amplify These Problems
The 100-Degree Rule
Most air conditioning systems are designed to maintain a 20-degree temperature difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures. When it’s 85°F outside, your system should easily maintain 65°F inside. But when temperatures hit 105°F, maintaining 75°F indoors becomes a challenge for many systems.
This 100-degree threshold is where properly sized and maintained systems separate from struggling ones. Systems with underlying problems that were manageable in moderate heat become overwhelmed when temperatures exceed this point.
Extended Runtime Stress
During heat waves, your AC runs for longer periods with fewer breaks. This extended runtime puts stress on every component:
- Motors work harder and generate more heat
- Electrical components operate closer to their limits
- Refrigerant pressures increase
- Condensate removal systems work overtime
A system that runs 6-8 hours per day in normal weather might run 18-20 hours during a heat wave. Components not designed for this extended operation often fail.
Grid Strain and Voltage Issues
LA’s electrical grid faces tremendous strain during heat waves. When everyone’s AC is running at maximum capacity, voltage can drop in some neighborhoods. Low voltage forces your AC motor to work harder, potentially causing damage or failure.
Rolling blackouts and power fluctuations during extreme heat events can also damage sensitive electronic components in modern AC systems.
What You Can Do Before the Next Heat Wave
Immediate Actions
Replace your air filter monthly during summer. A clean filter improves airflow and reduces strain on your system. During heat waves, check it weekly.
Clear debris from around your outdoor unit. Maintain at least two feet of clearance on all sides. Remove leaves, grass clippings, and other debris that can block airflow.
Check your thermostat settings. During extreme heat, set your thermostat to 78°F or higher. Each degree lower can increase energy usage by 6-8%.
Use ceiling fans to improve air circulation. Fans allow you to feel comfortable at higher temperatures, reducing the load on your AC system.
Longer-Term Solutions
Upgrade your insulation. Adding attic insulation and sealing air leaks can reduce your cooling load by 20-30%. This investment pays for itself through lower energy bills and reduced system wear.
Install programmable or smart thermostats. These devices can pre-cool your home before peak heat hours and adjust temperatures automatically to reduce strain during extreme weather.
Consider window treatments. Solar screens, reflective film, or insulated curtains on south and west-facing windows can significantly reduce heat gain.
Seal ductwork. Professional duct sealing can improve system efficiency by 15-25%, making your AC more effective during heat waves.
When to Call for Professional Help
Warning Signs Your System Is Struggling
Inconsistent cooling throughout your home during moderate weather indicates sizing or airflow problems that will worsen during heat waves.
Short cycling (frequent on/off cycles) suggests an oversized system or other issues that need professional attention.
High energy bills without increased usage often indicate efficiency problems that will become critical during extreme heat.
Strange noises or odors from your system signal mechanical problems that typically worsen under high-demand conditions.
The Value of Professional Load Calculations
If your system struggles during heat waves, a professional load calculation can determine whether your equipment is properly sized for your home. This analysis considers all factors affecting your cooling needs and provides a roadmap for improvements.
Professional technicians can also identify insulation problems, ductwork issues, and maintenance needs that contribute to poor performance during extreme weather.
HVAC Pros Los Angeles Approach to Heat Wave Preparedness
At HVAC Pros Los Angeles, we understand that AC problems during heat waves aren’t just inconveniences—they’re emergencies that affect your family’s comfort and safety. Our approach goes beyond simple repairs to address the root causes of heat wave failures.
We locate what’s causing the problem, give you a free quote, and then solve the problem quickly. That’s the kind of HVAC repair Los Angeles deserves.
Our comprehensive heat wave preparedness service includes:
- Professional load calculations to ensure proper system sizing
- Insulation assessments and recommendations
- Preventive maintenance focused on heat wave readiness
- Emergency repair services when extreme weather hits
We’ve helped thousands of LA homeowners prepare their systems for extreme heat, and we’re ready to help you ensure your family stays comfortable during the next heat wave.
Preparing for LA’s Extreme Heat Future
Climate scientists predict that heat waves in Los Angeles will become more frequent and intense. The systems and strategies that worked in past decades may not be adequate for future extreme weather events.
Start preparing now by addressing the three main causes of AC struggles: proper sizing, adequate insulation, and consistent maintenance. These investments will keep your family comfortable, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of your equipment.
Don’t wait until the next heat wave hits to discover your system’s limitations. Contact HVAC Pros Los Angeles today for a comprehensive assessment of your air conditioning system’s heat wave readiness. We’ll help you identify potential problems and create a plan to keep your home comfortable no matter how hot it gets outside.
Remember, the best time to prepare for extreme heat is when your system is working normally. Take action now, and you’ll be ready when LA’s next heat wave arrives.
