Ever feel like your AC is working overtime but you’re still sweating bullets inside your own home? You’re not imagining it. A constantly running air conditioner that still can’t cool your space properly is one of the most common complaints we hear from San Diego homeowners. It’s frustrating, inefficient, and it’s probably inflating your energy bill month after month.
Now, before you jump to the conclusion that your unit is broken, there are a handful of possible reasons this could be happening. And the good news? Many of them are fixable—often without needing a full replacement. Let’s dig into the top culprits and how to know when it’s time to call in the pros.
What’s Really Going On? Common Reasons Your AC Runs Nonstop
Your Air Conditioning system is designed to cycle on and off throughout the day—not run like it’s training for a marathon. If it never shuts off, something’s likely off balance. Some of the most frequent reasons include:
- Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: This one’s simple but often overlooked. When your air filters are packed with dust and debris, it blocks airflow and forces your system to work harder just to get the same amount of cool air out. Swapping filters every 1–3 months can seriously improve performance.
- Improperly Sized Unit: Bigger isn’t always better. An oversized unit may cool the air quickly but won’t run long enough to properly dehumidify your space. On the flip side, an undersized unit will keep running and running without ever reaching your set temperature.
- Leaky or Poorly Insulated Ducts: According to ENERGY STAR®, up to 30% of conditioned air can be lost through leaky ducts. That’s like throwing money out the window—literally. Poor insulation and aging ductwork often mean your cold air never makes it where it’s supposed to go.
- Thermostat Issues: Sometimes the problem isn’t the Air Conditioner at all—it’s the thermostat. A faulty or poorly placed thermostat might think your home is warmer than it actually is, causing your system to keep running unnecessarily.
- Low Refrigerant or Mechanical Wear: If it is low on refrigerant or has worn components (like a struggling compressor), it’ll struggle to cool your space efficiently. These issues usually require a technician’s touch.
Why Fixing It Now Matters More Than Ever
Besides being annoying, an AC that runs non-stop is burning through more electricity than it should. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, cooling accounts for about 12% of the average household’s energy bill. A malfunctioning system can easily double that. Not only are you losing money—you’re putting your system under stress, which can shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs down the road.
And in places like San Diego, where summer highs can creep up but the climate stays mild year-round, your system should be working smarter—not harder. If it’s not, it’s time to take action before small issues turn into major ones.
Conclusion
Your unit shouldn’t feel like it’s in a marathon just to keep you cool. If it’s constantly running and still not doing the job, it’s time for a proper checkup. Whether it’s an airflow issue, leaky ducts, or an aging unit, A/C Mechanical Sol Inc. is here to help you get things back on track. Explore our AC Repair services to tackle those nagging issues. If you’re due for a tune-up, don’t wait—check out our AC Maintenance plans. Thinking bigger? Our team also specializes in Energy Efficient HVAC upgrades to help you save long-term. And when you’re ready to schedule your appointment, just Contact Us for friendly, expert help.