Common AC Problems in Colorado’s Dry Climate

Living in Colorado’s dry, high-altitude climate has its perks—plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and crisp mountain air. But when summer temperatures rise, your air conditioner works overtime to keep your home comfortable. And while dry air might seem easier on your HVAC system than humid conditions, it can actually lead to some unique AC problems.

At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we’ve seen how Colorado’s climate affects cooling systems. Here are some of the most common AC issues we encounter—and what you can do about them.

1. Dry Air Can Lead to Cracked Components

In Colorado’s arid environment, the lack of moisture can cause rubber seals, gaskets, and insulation around your AC unit to dry out and crack over time. When these parts fail, your system may lose efficiency or leak refrigerant.

What you can do: Schedule annual maintenance to catch dried or worn-out components before they cause major issues.

2. Refrigerant Leaks Are Easy to Miss

Because the climate is so dry, symptoms of refrigerant leaks—like reduced cooling or frozen evaporator coils—might be overlooked. In drier climates, coils tend to freeze faster, making it hard for the system to cool your home efficiently.

Tip: If your AC isn’t keeping up with the heat or starts blowing warm air, have a professional check for a leak.

3. Dust and Debris Build-Up

Dry, dusty air—especially during windy Colorado springs and summers—can quickly clog your AC filters and coat internal components. This reduces airflow and strains your system.

Prevention: Replace filters every 1–2 months during heavy use, and keep the outdoor unit clear of dirt and debris.

4. Dehydrated Indoor Air

Your AC not only cools the air but also removes moisture. In already-dry conditions, that can leave your home uncomfortably arid, leading to dry skin, irritated sinuses, and even damage to wood furniture or floors.

Solution: Consider using a whole-home humidifier or portable units to maintain balanced indoor humidity.

5. Short Cycling from Overheating

In hot, dry climates, AC units sometimes shut off too quickly—known as short cycling—because they’re overheating or improperly sized. This puts more wear on the system and reduces its lifespan.

What to watch for: If your system turns on and off frequently without properly cooling the home, call a technician to inspect it.

Get Ahead of AC Issues in Dry Weather

Colorado’s climate poses specific challenges for cooling systems, but regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can keep your AC running smoothly.

If you're experiencing any of the problems above—or your system just isn’t performing like it used to—AC repair in Colorado Springs is just a call away. At Affordable Plumbing, Heat & Electrical, we provide expert service you can count on to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or tune-up!