If you live in California’s inland areas, you already know the summer heat doesn’t mess around. When the temperature spikes into the triple digits, your air conditioner has to work harder than ever – and sometimes, it just can’t keep up.
You might notice your AC running nonstop, the air coming from your vents feeling warmer than usual, or your home never quite reaching the temperature you set. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t always mean something is broken.
More often, it means your system is being pushed past what it was designed to handle.
Most ACs Aren’t Built for Extreme Inland Heat
Air conditioners are generally sized to handle a “design temperature,” typically around 95°F. But inland cities like Riverside, Redlands, or Rancho Cucamonga regularly hit 105°F or more during a heatwave. At that point, your AC may be working at full capacity and still not delivering the comfort you’re used to.
Think of it like trying to bail water out of a boat during a storm – it might help, but it won’t stop you from getting wet. Once outdoor temps exceed what your system was built for, performance drops, no matter how efficient your AC normally is.
Constant Cycling Isn’t Always a Good Thing
If your AC is running nonstop, it may seem like it’s doing its job. But constant cycling with little temperature change can be a red flag. It usually means the system is working harder than it should, and that can lead to overheating, short cycling, or even frozen coils if the airflow is restricted.
Low refrigerant levels, clogged filters, or dirty condenser coils can make things even worse. These issues all lower your system’s efficiency, which is the last thing you want during a record-setting heatwave.
Signs Your AC Is Struggling During a Heatwave
Keep an eye out for these signs that your system is under stress:
- The AC runs continuously but can’t cool your home to the temperature you’ve set
- Airflow feels weak or warm, even though the system is on
- Ice buildup on the outdoor unit or refrigerant lines
- Rooms farther from the thermostat feel hotter than the rest of the home
- The system shuts off and restarts frequently (short cycling)
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not imagining things. Your system may be under too much stress.
Other Factors That Could Be Making It Worse
In many homes, ductwork is an unseen problem. If your ducts are leaking or not insulated properly, cooled air can escape into the attic or crawl space before it ever reaches your living areas. That’s a huge loss when every degree counts.
Another common issue is system size. If your AC is too small for your home – or if your home was expanded without upgrading the system – it may never be able to keep up in a heatwave.
Unfortunately, no amount of running time can make an undersized system more powerful.
What You Can Do
- Check your air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow and makes your AC work harder.
- Clean around the outdoor unit. Dust, leaves, and debris can block the coil and lower efficiency.
- Close blinds or curtains. Keep sunlight out during peak heat hours to reduce indoor heat gain.
- Adjust your expectations. A target temperature of 76–78°F is more realistic when it’s 105°F outside.
If your system still struggles despite these steps, it might be time for a professional evaluation. A tune-up or repair could restore performance, or help you plan for a system that better fits your home and climate.
Stay Cool When It Matters Most
Inland heatwaves test every AC system, but you don’t have to sweat it alone. Dragonfly Heating & Cooling helps homeowners stay ahead of the heat with trusted repairs, cleanings, and honest system evaluations.
Whether your AC needs a little attention or a serious upgrade, we’ll make sure your home stays comfortable, no matter what the forecast brings.
