Why Your AC Runs Constantly in Florida—and How to Fix It
Plus: The Ideal Thermostat Temperature for Florida Summers
Comfort Control Specialists | Spring Hill, FL | 1.855.234.COOL
In Florida, air conditioning isn’t a luxury—it’s survival. But what happens when your AC unit never seems to shut off? Is it normal for it to run all day in 90°+ weather? Could it be a sign of a hidden issue? And what’s the right temperature to set your thermostat so you stay cool without breaking the bank?
At Comfort Control Specialists, we’ve helped homeowners across Hernando, Pasco, and Citrus counties keep their homes cool, efficient, and reliable year-round. This guide breaks down exactly why your AC might be running constantly—and how to fix it. We’ll also give you data-backed thermostat tips for surviving the brutal Florida summer without blowing out your system or budget.
Florida’s Unique Climate Challenges
Florida is the hottest and most humid state in the U.S. for much of the year. According to NOAA, the average summer temperature in Florida hovers around 82°F–92°F, with humidity levels often exceeding 80%. These two factors put relentless pressure on your HVAC system.
Key Factors:
- Long cooling seasons: May through October (and beyond)
- High dew points: Keeps your home feeling sticky unless properly dehumidified
- Tropical storms/hurricanes: Cause power outages and surges that can damage HVAC units
- Pollen and mold: Thrive in warm, wet conditions and affect indoor air quality
Your AC system in Florida doesn’t just cool—it’s working double-duty to manage humidity, which often causes it to run longer than AC systems in other parts of the country.
Why AC Units Run Constantly in Florida
It’s not unusual for AC systems in Florida to run frequently. But when it’s running constantly, that often signals a problem. Here’s what could be going on:
1. Undersized AC System
Many Florida homes have AC units that are too small for the home’s square footage and heat load. A 2-ton unit can’t effectively cool a 2,200 sq. ft. home in 95°F weather. The result? The unit never satisfies the thermostat and keeps running.
2. Thermostat Set Too Low
Setting your thermostat to 68°F in July in Florida is asking your system to work nonstop. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), every degree you set your thermostat below 78°F increases your cooling costs by up to 8%.
3. Leaky Ductwork
Up to 30% of cooled air can be lost through leaky or poorly insulated ductwork (source: ENERGY STAR). That means your system is working harder to make up for the loss, extending run times.
4. Dirty Air Filters
A clogged filter restricts airflow and forces your AC system to run longer to circulate air. Replace filters every 30–60 days in Florida homes—especially during peak usage months.
5. Low Refrigerant or Leak
If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t cool effectively—leading to longer cycles. This is a sign of a leak, not just “low freon.” A certified HVAC tech must fix the leak and recharge the system.
6. Poor Insulation or Attic Ventilation
A poorly insulated attic can reach 130–150°F in Florida, creating an oven effect above your ceiling. This constant heat gain means your AC has to run nearly all day to compensate.
7. Old or Inefficient AC System
AC units older than 10–15 years lose efficiency. An old 10 SEER unit can cost twice as much to run as a modern 16–18 SEER2 unit—especially in a climate like Florida.
Top 10 Causes of Constant AC Operation:
Here’s a quick list and breakdown:
| Cause | How It Affects Cooling |
|---|---|
| Undersized Unit | Can’t keep up with heat load |
| Oversized Unit | Short cycles, poor humidity control |
| Low Refrigerant | Longer cycles, poor performance |
| Dirty Coils | Heat transfer is blocked |
| Blocked Airflow | Filter or vent obstructions |
| Leaky Ducts | Conditioned air is lost |
| Poor Insulation | More heat enters the home |
| Faulty Thermostat | Sends bad signals to AC |
| Unsealed Doors/Windows | Air escapes constantly |
| Extreme Outdoor Temps | System can’t rest |
Impacts of a Continuously Running AC
Letting your system run all day without addressing the root cause can be costly:
Higher Energy Bills: The average Florida home spends 40–50% of its energy bill on cooling in summer.
Shortened System Lifespan: Constant runtime leads to faster wear on compressors and fans.
Humidity Issues: Ironically, a system that runs too often may not dehumidify effectively—leading to mold risks.
More Frequent Breakdowns: Overheating and cycling strain the components, increasing repair frequency.
Diagnosing the Problem: Step-by-Step
Before calling a pro, try these steps:
DIY AC Troubleshooting
Check air filter – Replace if dirty
Inspect vents and returns – Ensure no blockages
Review thermostat settings – Avoid extreme low temps
Look for ice on lines – Sign of refrigerant issue
Listen for strange sounds – May indicate failing parts
When to Call a Pro
If none of the above solves the issue, call Comfort Control Specialists at 1.855.234.COOL. Our licensed techs will:
Perform full system diagnostics
Test for refrigerant leaks
Inspect ductwork and attic insulation
Check thermostat calibration
Provide SEER2 upgrade options if needed
Setting the Ideal Thermostat Temperature for Florida Summers
The Department of Energy recommends the following settings for optimal performance in hot climates like Florida. These temps may save you energy but may not keep you comfortable, they can all be adjusted down 2-3 degrees for comfort:
| Situation | Recommended Setting |
|---|---|
| At Home (Day) | 78°F |
| Sleeping | 74–76°F |
| Away from Home | 82–84°F |
⚠️ Setting the thermostat too low doesn’t cool your home faster—it just runs longer. Setting it too high may also make your unit work harder to initially cool your home in the mornings.
Why 78°F?
According to ENERGY STAR, 78°F strikes the best balance between comfort and efficiency. At this setting:
- Your AC runs more manageable cycles
- Humidity is controlled without overcooling
- Your utility bills stay predictable
Smart Thermostats: A Florida Homeowner’s Secret Weapon
Upgrading to a smart thermostat like the Ecobee SmartThermostat or Google Nest gives you total control over your cooling system.
Benefits:
Remote adjustments via smartphone
Learning capability that adapts to your schedule
Energy usage tracking and optimization
Humidity integration in some models
Ask Comfort Control Specialists about installing and programming a smart thermostat with zoning or humidity control.
Energy Efficiency Tips for AC Optimization
Here are simple yet effective strategies to reduce your AC run time and energy costs in Florida:
✅ Change filters regularly (monthly in summer)
✅ Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping
✅ Install a radiant barrier or attic insulation
✅ Use ceiling fans to circulate air
✅ Schedule professional maintenance twice per year
✅ Use curtains or solar shades on sunny windows
✅ Avoid heat-generating activities during peak hours (oven, dryer, etc.)
Comfort Control Specialists: Spring Hill’s Trusted AC Experts
At Comfort Control Specialists, we’ve been serving the Gulf Coast community with high-performance HVAC systems and expert service for years. Our team specializes in:
✅ AC repair, replacement, and tune-ups
✅ Smart thermostat installation
✅ Ductwork inspection and sealing
✅ Dehumidifier and air quality upgrades
✅ New SEER2-compliant energy-efficient systems
Located in Spring Hill, Florida. Call 1.855.234.COOL for a free system inspection or quote.
If your AC is running nonstop this summer, it’s more than an inconvenience—it’s a red flag. Whether it’s caused by poor insulation, low refrigerant, or simply the thermostat being set too low, there are real solutions that save energy, increase comfort, and extend your system’s life.
Trust the experts at Comfort Control Specialists to help you stay cool and confident—no matter how brutal the Florida heat gets.