What’s normal, what’s not, and what homeowners should pay attention to
If you live in Florida, you’ve probably had this thought at some point during summer:
“Has my AC turned off today… at all?”
When temperatures climb and humidity stays high, it can feel like your air conditioner runs nonstop. Sometimes that’s completely normal. Other times, it’s a warning sign that something isn’t right.
Understanding the difference can save you from high energy bills, unnecessary stress, and major system damage.
How AC Systems Are Designed to Work in Extreme Heat
Air conditioners are designed to maintain indoor temperatures, not cool homes instantly. During extreme Florida heat, your system may:
- Run for long cycles
- Shut off briefly, then restart
- Focus heavily on removing humidity
Longer run times actually help with humidity control, which is critical for comfort in Florida.
So yes — on very hot days, it’s normal for your AC to run more than usual.
When Constant Running Is Considered Normal
Your AC may be operating normally if:
- It eventually reaches the thermostat setting
- Airflow feels steady and cool
- Indoor humidity feels comfortable
- Energy bills are consistent with seasonal expectations
On 90°+ days with high humidity, long run cycles are expected.
When Constant Running Is a Problem
If your AC never shuts off or can’t reach the set temperature, something may be wrong.
Red Flags to Watch For
- The system runs all day without cooling the home
- Warm or weak air from vents
- Certain rooms never cool down
- Noticeably higher electric bills
- Ice forming on refrigerant lines or the indoor coil
These signs indicate inefficiency or mechanical stress.
Common Reasons an AC Runs Constantly in Florida
1. Dirty Air Filter
Restricted airflow forces the system to run longer to move the same amount of air.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant reduces cooling capacity and causes the system to run nonstop while struggling to cool.
3. Dirty or Blocked Coils
Coils covered in dirt or salt buildup can’t release heat efficiently.
4. Poor Insulation or Air Leaks
Cool air escaping through leaks means your AC must work harder to maintain temperature.
5. Undersized AC System
If the system is too small for the home, it may never catch up on hot days.
6. Failing Components
Weak capacitors, aging motors, or electrical issues can reduce efficiency and increase runtime.
Why Constant Running Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Even though AC systems are built for long runtimes, constant strain shortens their lifespan.
Potential consequences include:
- Higher energy bills
- Accelerated wear on motors and compressors
- Increased likelihood of breakdowns
- Reduced system lifespan
Addressing the cause early protects your investment.
What Homeowners Can Check First
Before calling a professional, you can safely:
- Replace the air filter
- Check that vents are open and unobstructed
- Clear debris from around the outdoor unit
- Confirm thermostat settings
If these don’t help, it’s time for a professional inspection.
When to Call a Professional
You should call for service if:
- The system won’t reach the set temperature
- Ice is visible on the unit
- Breakers trip repeatedly
- Runtime increases suddenly without explanation
These issues typically require specialized tools and expertise.
Sea Coast Air Conditioning Knows Florida Heat
Since 1982, Sea Coast has helped Treasure Coast homeowners stay comfortable through Florida’s toughest summers. We know what’s normal, what’s not, and how to fix problems before they become expensive failures.
📞 Call 772-466-2400
🌐 Visit SeacoastAir.com
Don’t Roast — Call Seacoast!