Patna: With temperatures crossing seasonal norms in several parts of India, households are reporting more frequent air conditioner failures as appliances struggle under prolonged use during the ongoing summer heat.
The sharp rise in daytime temperatures has increased dependence on cooling systems in homes and offices. Technicians say the sustained demand is exposing maintenance issues and placing additional pressure on older units.
Continuous Operation Is Straining Systems
During peak summer, many households keep AC units running for extended hours, often throughout the day and night. This places heavy stress on compressors, condensers and internal circuits.
Service engineers say prolonged operation without sufficient downtime can lead to overheating, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of sudden breakdowns.
Clogged Filters Reduce Cooling Efficiency
Dust accumulation in air filters remains one of the most common reasons for reduced cooling.
When filters are blocked, airflow drops significantly. The unit then consumes more energy to maintain the set temperature, which adds strain to the motor and other components. Experts recommend cleaning filters regularly, particularly during periods of heavy use.
Outdoor Unit Placement Matters
The external unit plays a key role in releasing heat from indoors. If it is installed in a confined space or surrounded by debris, walls or vegetation, heat dispersal becomes difficult.
This can cause the system to overheat, leading to lower cooling performance and a greater chance of mechanical faults.
Refrigerant Levels Affect Performance
Low refrigerant gas levels can also reduce an AC’s ability to cool effectively. Leaks or delayed servicing often leave systems undercharged.
Technicians say this forces compressors to work longer cycles to achieve the desired temperature, increasing wear and energy consumption.
Voltage Fluctuations Add to Damage
Rising electricity demand during summer often causes unstable voltage in several residential areas.
Power fluctuations can damage sensitive AC components, particularly circuit boards and compressors. Electrical technicians advise using a voltage stabiliser where supply remains inconsistent.
Preventive Servicing Can Reduce Failures
Cooling experts say many of these issues can be avoided through regular servicing before the summer season begins.
Routine checks of filters, refrigerant levels, drainage and electrical systems can improve performance and reduce emergency repairs during high-temperature periods.
