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When summer hits Fort Walton Beach, your air conditioner becomes your best friend—but if it’s running nonstop, something isn’t right. An AC that never shuts off is more than just an energy hog; it could be a sign that your system is struggling to keep up or experiencing a mechanical issue.
While short-cycling (when an AC turns on and off too frequently) gets a lot of attention, long, continuous run times are the other side of the same coin. This can be just as damaging to your system, eventually requiring AC repair.
Here’s a breakdown of what might be causing your AC to run too long
1. Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Before jumping to conclusions, check your thermostat. If it’s set too low—especially during high heat and humidity—your system may run constantly trying to hit an unrealistic target.
What to do: Try raising the temperature by a few degrees. In Fort Walton Beach’s climate, a setting around 75–78°F offers a balance between comfort and efficiency. If the unit continues to run, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
2. Dirty Air Filters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and run longer to reach the set temperature. This can also lead to frozen coils, poor cooling performance, and the need for AC repair in Fort Walton Beach.
What to do: Check your filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Peaden Pros recommend inspecting your filter monthly, especially during heavy-use seasons.
3. Leaky or Poorly Insulated Ductwork
If cool air is escaping into your attic or crawl spaces due to leaky ducts, your AC will continue running to compensate. This is a common issue in older homes and beach properties in the Fort Walton Beach area.
What to do: A duct inspection from the Peaden Pros can reveal hidden leaks and airflow problems. Sealing your ducts boosts efficiency and helps your system cycle off properly.
4. Undersized or Aging System
If your AC is too small for your home—or if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan—it may not have the capacity to cool your space efficiently. As a result, it runs longer than necessary just to maintain a basic level of comfort.
What to do: Our team can perform a load calculation to determine if your unit is properly sized. If a replacement is needed, we’ll recommend energy-efficient options that are right for your home.
5. Dirty Coils
The evaporator and condenser coils in your AC system play a critical role in heat exchange. When these coils get covered in dirt or debris, the system loses efficiency and struggles to cool your home, running longer to compensate.
What to do: Schedule a professional AC tune-up. Peaden Pros will clean your coils, check refrigerant levels, and optimize your system’s performance.
6. Stuck Contactor or Electrical Issue
If your AC keeps running even after the set temperature is reached, a stuck contactor or other electrical component may be to blame. This can prevent the system from shutting off when it should.
What to do: This issue requires professional diagnosis. The Peaden Pros can safely troubleshoot and repair any faulty electrical components to restore normal cycling.
If your AC won’t stop running, it’s time to take action before your energy bills spike—or your system breaks down completely.