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Lic. CAC1819196 · CFC1431159
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Troubleshooting Guide

AC Running Constantly in Tampa?

AC running non-stop in Tampa heat is usually normal (humidity demands long cycles). But if it literally NEVER turns off and the house still feels warm, something is wrong. 4 most common causes below.

Quick Answer

AC running constantly in Tampa = 4 causes: (1) thermostat set too low (under 72°F is unrealistic for Tampa heat), (2) refrigerant leak (AC can’t reach setpoint), (3) dirty coils/filter restricting airflow, or (4) undersized AC for your home. Fix: thermostat $0, filter $89, coil clean $279, refrigerant $399-$599. Call (813) 343-2212.

4 Reasons AC Never Stops

Thermostat Too Low

DIY possible

Symptom: Set to 68-70°F, unrealistic in Tampa summer; AC runs continuously trying.

Raise setpoint to 74-78°F (DOE recommended 78°F for energy efficiency).

Low Refrigerant

Call a tech

Symptom: AC runs but can’t reach setpoint, bills climbing.

Leak detection + repair $399-$599 + recharge $95/lb.

Dirty Coils/Filter

DIY possible

Symptom: Visible dirt on filter or outdoor coil.

Filter $89, professional coil cleaning $279.

Undersized AC

Call a tech

Symptom: AC has always struggled to cool, worse in Aug/Sept.

Proper load calculation ($0 with free in-home quote). Upsize unit: $6,643-$15,406 full replace.

What to Do Right Now

  1. Check thermostat setting, raise to 74-78°F.
  2. Replace air filter if dirty.
  3. Clean outdoor coil (garden hose, top down).
  4. If still running constantly, call for diagnostic.

Thermostat adjustment: $0. Filter: $89. Coil clean: $279. Refrigerant fix: $399-$699. AC upsize: $6,643-$15,406.

FAQ

Is running all day normal in Tampa?

Largely yes, Tampa humidity + heat means AC works hard. “Long cycles” = good for humidity control. “Never stops” + doesn’t cool = bad.

What's the ideal Tampa thermostat setting?

DOE recommends 78°F. For Tampa comfort: 74-76°F is realistic. Lower than 72°F in summer = unrealistic demand.

Will always-running AC wear it out faster?

Yes. Tampa ACs log 2-3x the runtime of northern systems. Annual maintenance ($249+) significantly extends life.

Can low Freon cause this?

Yes, AC can’t cool efficiently, runs continuously trying to reach setpoint but never does. Also freezes the coil.

Is my AC too small?

Possibly. A 1,500 sq ft Tampa home needs ~3 tons. If yours is 2.5 tons or smaller, undersized. Manual J calc confirms.

Need Help With a constantly-running AC?

Same-day Tampa Bay service. FREE diagnosis on every call. (813) 343-2212.

★★★★ 4.8 (1,333 verified reviews)
Verified4.8★ · 1,333 reviews
🛡 FL Licensed: CAC1819196 · CFC1431159💼 $1M General Liability + Workers’ Comp🏠 Family-owned since 2017⚡ Same-day service
★★★★★AC repair

Dusty did a great job and provided honest service and pricing for our AC repair. He also went above and beyond in giving sound advice on our new home renovations!

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I have used this company for AC repairs and plumbing maintenance. They keep track of scheduled maintenance. It's easy to create appointments. Every technician who has sent here has been very helpful…

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Home Therapist is dependable, reliable, trustworthy and knowledgeable and provides ALWAYS Great Service!!!

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I'm glad they use a texting system for reminders and when the tech is on the way. Alejandro has done out checkups the last few times and is always courteous and conscious…

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Their yearly plan provides 2 inspections and a bunch of other services for less price than what many other companies are charging for a single service visit. And service has been perfect…

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I had a great experience with Alejandro from Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing. He repaired two toilets and installed the water line to my new refrigerator after the delivery team refused…

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Amazing service from start to finish. My AC system completely stopped working, and they were able to come out the same day, which was a huge relief. The technician was professional, knowledgeable,…

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As an engineer/fabricator/assembler, I have high standards from my contractors. This guy Sam, he fulfilled all my requests and installation needs. He took pride of his work, and left me with a…

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A big THANK YOU to Home Therapist Cooling, Heating and Plumbing for running sewer pipes to our RV and shed! Samuel was beyond amazing! He was prompt, professional, and his communication style…

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Reviewed by Richard MoralesCo-Owner & FL Class B Air Conditioning Contractor, Home Therapist

Richard co-owns Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing and holds the FL Class B Air Conditioning Contractor license (CAC1819196) since 2017. The company holds licenses CAC1819196 (FL Class B AC Contractor, Richard Morales) and CFC1431159 (FL Plumbing Contractor, Alex Morales), serving the Tampa Bay metro with a six-technician field team and 1,378+ verified five-star reviews.

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