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If your air conditioner seems to be running nonstop—even when your home feels cool—you’re not alone. Many homeowners call Premier with the same concern: “Why won’t my AC turn off?” This is more than just an annoyance. An air conditioner that runs too long or too often can drive up your energy bills, wear down system components, and eventually lead to a costly breakdown. It may even be a sign that an AC upgrade is overdue.
Why won’t my AC shut off?
• Thermostat misreads the temperature due to poor placement or calibration
• The HVAC system is incorrectly sized, too small runs constantly, too large cycles inefficiently
• Dirty filters or coils restrict airflow, forcing long run times
• Low refrigerant, often from a leak, reduces cooling efficiency and prolongs operation
• Heat escapes through poor insulation or leaks, making the system work harder
This issue is known as “short cycling” or “runaway cooling,” and it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on with your system. At Premier, we specialize in diagnosing and AC repair in Perry, GA. Here’s a look at the most common causes—and what you can do about it.
1. Your Thermostat Is Misreading the Temperature
Sometimes the problem isn’t with your AC unit at all—it’s with your thermostat. If your thermostat is located in a poor spot (like near a window or air vent), it might misread your home’s temperature and cause your AC to keep running longer than necessary. Inaccurate readings can lead to inefficient cycles, which are often among the leading causes of HVAC malfunctions.
What to do: Have a technician from Premier inspect your thermostat placement and calibration. We can recommend repositioning it or upgrading to a smart thermostat for better accuracy.
2. Your System Is the Wrong Size
An improperly sized AC unit is one of the biggest culprits behind frequent cycling. A system that’s too small will run constantly as it struggles to reach the desired temperature. On the other hand, a system that’s too large can cool your home too quickly, turning off and on repeatedly—which wastes energy and wears down parts faster.
What to do: Our experts at Premier can perform a load calculation to determine whether your system is properly sized for your home’s square footage and layout.
3. Dirty Air Filters or Coils
When your air filter is clogged or your evaporator and condenser coils are coated in dust and debris, airflow becomes restricted. This forces your system to work harder and longer to move air through the home, often resulting in extended run times.
What to do: Check your air filter monthly and replace it as needed. If you suspect dirty coils, schedule a professional AC maintenance visit with Premier.
4. Low Refrigerant Levels
If your AC is low on refrigerant—often due to a leak—your system won’t be able to cool efficiently. This can lead to excessively long run cycles as the unit struggles to remove heat from your home. If replacement is necessary, make sure you understand the energy efficiency ratings for HVAC so you can make the most cost-effective choice.
What to do: A certified technician should inspect the system, locate any leaks, and recharge the refrigerant to the proper level.
5. Poor Insulation or Air Leaks
Even if your AC is working perfectly, poor insulation or leaky ductwork can cause your system to run longer to compensate for the lost cool air.
What to do: Premier offers duct inspections and sealing services to ensure your system is operating as efficiently as possible.
Don’t Let Your AC Run Wild—Call Premier in Perry, GA
If your AC won’t stop running, it’s time to get to the bottom of the problem before it leads to a breakdown—or an unmanageable utility bill. At Premier, we offer fast, reliable AC repair. Our licensed technicians will pinpoint the issue, recommend the best solution, and get your system back on track.