Common AC Problems
South Florida
Quick Answer
Experiencing AC problems in South Florida? The most common issues are: AC not cooling (dirty filter/low refrigerant), won't turn on (electrical issues), strange noises (mechanical problems), and water leaks (drain clogs). See our guide below for specific troubleshooting steps.
Most Common AC Problems in Florida
AC Running But Not Cooling
Unit runs continuously but house temperature stays warm
Typical Repair Cost:
$150-$800
Response Urgency:
Same day service recommended
Common Causes:
- • Dirty or clogged air filter
- • Low refrigerant levels
- • Frozen evaporator coil
- • Blocked outdoor unit
- • Thermostat malfunction
- • Ductwork leaks
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Replace air filter immediately
- ✓Check thermostat settings
- ✓Clear debris from outdoor unit
- ✓Ensure all vents are open
When to Call Professionals:
If problem persists after DIY steps or if you notice ice formation
AC Won't Turn On At All
No response when thermostat calls for cooling
Typical Repair Cost:
$150-$600
Response Urgency:
Emergency service if during heat wave
Common Causes:
- • Tripped circuit breaker
- • Blown fuse
- • Thermostat battery dead
- • Wiring issues
- • Capacitor failure
- • Control board malfunction
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Check circuit breakers and reset if needed
- ✓Replace thermostat batteries
- ✓Verify thermostat is set to "cool"
- ✓Check outdoor disconnect switch
When to Call Professionals:
If breaker resets don't work or breaker trips repeatedly
Strange Noises From AC Unit
Unusual sounds coming from indoor or outdoor unit
Typical Repair Cost:
$200-$1,200
Response Urgency:
Immediate for loud mechanical noises
Common Causes:
- • Loose or damaged fan blades
- • Worn motor bearings
- • Debris in unit
- • Refrigerant leak
- • Ductwork issues
- • Compressor problems
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Turn off system immediately for loud/grinding noises
- ✓Check for visible debris around outdoor unit
- ✓Listen to identify if noise is from indoor or outdoor unit
When to Call Professionals:
For any grinding, screeching, or banging noises - turn off and call immediately
AC Turns On and Off Frequently
System cycles on and off every few minutes
Typical Repair Cost:
$150-$800
Response Urgency:
Within 48 hours to prevent equipment damage
Common Causes:
- • Oversized AC unit
- • Dirty air filter
- • Refrigerant issues
- • Thermostat problems
- • Electrical issues
- • Frozen coil
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Replace air filter
- ✓Check thermostat location (away from heat sources)
- ✓Ensure proper airflow around indoor and outdoor units
When to Call Professionals:
If DIY steps don't resolve cycling within 24 hours
Water Leaking From AC Unit
Water pooling around indoor unit or dripping from vents
Typical Repair Cost:
$150-$500
Response Urgency:
Emergency service to prevent property damage
Common Causes:
- • Clogged condensate drain
- • Cracked drain pan
- • Frozen coil melting
- • Improper installation
- • High humidity issues
- • Dirty coils
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Turn off AC system immediately
- ✓Clean up water to prevent damage
- ✓Check for visible clogs in drain line
- ✓Replace air filter if dirty
When to Call Professionals:
Immediately - water damage can be extensive and expensive
Unusually High Energy Bills
Electric bills significantly higher than normal
Typical Repair Cost:
$99-$400
Response Urgency:
Schedule within 2 weeks
Common Causes:
- • Dirty air filter reducing efficiency
- • Aging equipment losing efficiency
- • Ductwork leaks
- • Poor insulation
- • Thermostat issues
- • System needs maintenance
Safe DIY Steps to Try:
- ✓Replace air filter monthly
- ✓Check for air leaks around windows and doors
- ✓Clean outdoor unit coils
- ✓Verify thermostat programming
When to Call Professionals:
If bills remain high after basic maintenance
🌴 Florida-Specific AC Challenges
Unique problems caused by Florida's climate and environment
🌊 Coastal Areas (Salt Air):
- • Accelerated corrosion of coils and fins
- • Electrical connection deterioration
- • More frequent component replacement needed
- • Special coatings recommended for equipment
💧 High Humidity Issues:
- • Frequent condensate drain clogs
- • Mold and algae growth in systems
- • Poor dehumidification from oversized units
- • Increased maintenance requirements
⚡ Electrical Storm Damage:
- • Power surge damage to control boards
- • Capacitor failures from voltage spikes
- • Thermostat malfunctions
- • Surge protector installation recommended
🔥 Extreme Heat Operation:
- • Year-round system operation stress
- • Faster component wear and tear
- • Higher refrigerant pressures
- • More frequent filter changes needed
🛡️ Preventing Common AC Problems
Monthly Tasks:
- ✓ Change air filter (every 30 days in summer)
- ✓ Clear outdoor unit of debris
- ✓ Check thermostat operation
- ✓ Listen for unusual noises
- ✓ Monitor energy bills for increases
Seasonal Tasks:
- ✓ Professional tune-up (spring/fall)
- ✓ Duct inspection and cleaning
- ✓ Refrigerant level check
- ✓ Electrical connection inspection
- ✓ Hurricane preparation (summer)
🚨 AC Emergency?
Fast emergency service in South Florida
🚨 Emergency Signs
Call immediately if you notice:
- • Burning smells
- • Sparks or electrical issues
- • Water leaking inside
- • Loud grinding/screeching noises
- • Ice formation on unit
- • Complete system failure in extreme heat