Why Your AC Runs Constantly in Florida — And When to Worry

Living in Florida Means Your AC Works Hard — But Is It Working Too Hard?

If you’ve noticed your air conditioner seems to be running non-stop, you’re not alone. In Florida’s hot and humid climate, it's normal for your AC to run longer than it might in other parts of the country — but constant operation isn't always a good thing.

Let’s explore why your AC runs constantly in Florida, what’s considered normal vs. problematic, and when it's time to call in a professional.

Florida Climate: The Main Reason Your AC Works Overtime

Florida summers (and even much of spring and fall) bring high humidity and scorching temperatures. During peak heat, your AC may need to run longer to:

• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature
• Remove moisture from the air (dehumidifying takes time and energy)
• Offset direct sunlight, especially in west-facing rooms

So, yes — your AC will naturally run more in Florida than in cooler climates. But there’s a difference between running often and running constantly without cycling off.

When Constant AC Run Time Becomes a Problem

If your AC never seems to turn off, even during cooler mornings or evenings, it could signal an efficiency issue. Some common causes include:

1. Clogged Air Filter

A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder. Check and replace your filter every month.

2. Improperly Sized AC Unit

An undersized system may never reach your set temperature. An oversized unit can short-cycle and fail to dehumidify properly.

3. Low Refrigerant Levels

Without enough refrigerant, your system can’t cool the air effectively — so it keeps running, trying to reach the set temp.

4. Dirty Evaporator or Condenser Coils

Dust and debris buildup can block airflow and reduce cooling performance.

5. Leaky Ductwork

If cool air escapes into your attic or crawl space, your AC will run longer to compensate.

6. Thermostat Problems

A malfunctioning thermostat may misread temperatures or fail to signal the system to turn off.

Quick Fixes You Can Try at Home

Before calling in a pro, try these basic steps:

• Replace your air filter if it’s been more than a month
• Check thermostat settings (make sure it’s not set to “fan on” instead of “auto”)
• Inspect vents to ensure they’re open and unobstructed
• Close blinds/curtains during peak sunlight hours

Still running non-stop? Time to call an HVAC technician.

How Perfect Air Can Help

At Perfect Air, we know Florida AC systems inside and out. Our certified technicians can:

• Pinpoint the exact cause of your AC overuse
• Check refrigerant levels, ductwork, and coil cleanliness
• Recommend system upgrades or repairs if needed

We offer affordable maintenance plans to keep your system running efficiently year-round — saving you money and stress.

Don’t Let a Constantly Running AC Run Up Your Energy Bill

Your AC should work hard — but not nonstop. If you're experiencing constant operation, it's time to check for Florida AC efficiency issues before they become expensive repairs.

Contact Perfect Air today to schedule a quick inspection or tune-up — and get your comfort (and utility bill) back on track.