Why Your AC Runs Constantly in Florida Summers – And What to Do

Brought to You by BulletProof Air – Sarasota & Manatee’s Trusted HVAC Experts

If you live in Sarasota or Manatee County, you've probably noticed something frustrating during the summer: your air conditioner seems to run non-stop. The system kicks on in the morning and might not shut off again until long after the sun goes down.

While it’s normal for your AC to run more frequently during the hottest months, running constantly may be a sign of underlying issues or inefficiencies. At BulletProof Air, we help homeowners throughout the Gulf Coast region get to the bottom of these problems before they turn into expensive breakdowns or sky-high energy bills.

Is It Normal for an AC to Run All Day in Florida?

In short — sometimes, yes. Florida’s combination of high heat and high humidity puts constant pressure on your HVAC system. In Sarasota and Bradenton, summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s, and when you add in the moisture from the Gulf, your system has to work harder to cool and dehumidify your home.

However, if your AC never seems to cycle off, it could be a symptom of one or more problems that need professional attention.

Common Reasons Your AC Won’t Stop Running

1. It's Too Hot Outside

When outside temperatures soar into the mid-to-high 90s, even the most efficient AC system may struggle to keep up. In this case, long run times are a normal response to extreme weather.

2. Undersized HVAC System

If your system isn’t properly sized for your home, it may lack the capacity to cool your space effectively, especially during peak hours. This leads to continuous operation and higher wear and tear.

3. Poor Insulation or Air Leaks

If your home isn’t well-sealed, cool air escapes and hot, humid air enters. That forces your AC to run constantly to maintain the desired indoor temperature.

4. Dirty Air Filters or Coils

Restricted airflow caused by clogged filters or dirty evaporator and condenser coils makes it harder for your system to cool efficiently. This not only causes the system to run longer but also drives up your energy bills.

5. Low Refrigerant Levels

If your AC is low on refrigerant, it can’t remove heat effectively. That causes longer run cycles and uneven cooling throughout your home.

6. Faulty Thermostat

A malfunctioning or poorly placed thermostat may signal the AC to keep running, even when your home has reached the desired temperature.

7. Wrong Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat too low (like 68°F) in the Florida summer might make your AC run continuously trying to reach an unrealistic goal. The recommended setting for energy savings is 75–78°F.

What You Can Do About It

Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

Professional maintenance ensures your system is clean, properly charged, and operating at peak efficiency. BulletProof Air offers full-service tune-ups customized for Sarasota and Manatee County homes.

Seal and Insulate Your Home

We can inspect your home for air leaks, poor ductwork, and inadequate insulation. Sealing these up can dramatically reduce the workload on your AC.

Check and Replace Filters Regularly

We recommend checking your air filters monthly during peak season. Clean filters ensure better airflow and reduce strain on your system.

Upgrade Your Thermostat

Smart thermostats help manage run times, learn your habits, and even reduce cooling needs when you’re not home. Our team can install and program one for you.

Consider a System Upgrade

If your current AC is over 10–12 years old, it may not be keeping up with Florida’s summer demands. Modern high-efficiency systems cool faster, run less, and save you money long-term.

Stay Cool and Save with BulletProof Air

Don’t let constant AC run time drain your wallet or wear out your system. Our expert technicians can diagnose your issue, make professional recommendations, and restore cooling efficiency fast.

We proudly serve Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Venice, Palmetto, and all nearby areas with honest service, fast response times, and unmatched expertise.

BulletProof Air – Making Florida Summers Comfortable, One Home at a Time.