Why Your AC Is Running Nonstop—And What to Do About It
When your air conditioner won’t stop running, it’s more than just an annoyance—it can mean higher energy bills, extra wear and tear on your system, and uncomfortable indoor temps. Here in Charleston, where the summer heat and humidity are no joke, your AC may need to work hard—but if it’s running nonstop, something’s not quite right. At Carolina Climate Control, we get a lot of calls from Lowcountry homeowners about this issue. Here's what might be causing it—and what you can do to fix it.
1. It’s Just That Hot and Humid
Let’s start with the obvious: Charleston summers are hot. With temps in the 90s and humidity through the roof, your AC has to work overtime to keep your home cool. If your system is properly sized and running efficiently, it may still run longer than usual on those sweltering days—but it shouldn’t run 24/7.
What to do:
If it’s just extreme weather, your AC might be doing its job. But if it’s running nonstop for days, or never reaches the set temperature, it’s worth having it checked.
2. Your Air Filter Is Dirty
A clogged filter restricts airflow, which can make your AC struggle to cool your home. That means it runs longer—and uses more energy—to do the same amount of work.
What to do:
Check your filter. If it looks dirty or hasn’t been changed in over a month, swap it out. Carolina Climate Control recommends checking your filter at least once a month during the cooling season.
3. Thermostat Trouble
If your thermostat is set incorrectly or isn’t working right, your AC may not know when to shut off. A malfunctioning thermostat could be sending the wrong signals.
What to do:
Make sure your thermostat is set to “auto” (not “on”), so the fan only runs when needed. If you suspect a problem, try replacing the batteries or upgrading to a smart thermostat—our team can help you choose one that works best for your home.
4. Leaky Ductwork
If cool air is escaping through holes or gaps in your ductwork, your AC will keep running to compensate—even though your living spaces aren’t getting the cool air they should.
What to do:
Leaky ducts are surprisingly common in Charleston homes, especially older ones. A professional duct inspection and sealing service can help restore efficiency and comfort.
5. Your AC Is the Wrong Size
Bigger isn't always better. An oversized unit can short cycle (turn on and off too often), while an undersized unit may run constantly and still not keep you cool.
What to do:
If your AC has always struggled or run nonstop, you might have a sizing issue. Carolina Climate Control can evaluate your home and recommend the right solution—whether it's a new system, a zoning upgrade, or efficiency improvements.
6. Time for a Tune-Up (or a Repair)
Sometimes, your system just needs a little TLC. Dirty coils, low refrigerant, or worn-out parts can all force your AC to work harder than necessary.
What to do:
Schedule a maintenance visit. Our certified HVAC technicians will inspect your system, clean components, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything is running smoothly. Preventative maintenance can save you from costly breakdowns—and lower your monthly bills.
Stay Cool, Charleston
Your AC shouldn’t have to run all day to keep you comfortable. If your system is acting up or running nonstop, don’t wait until it breaks down. Let the experts at Carolina Climate Control take a look and get your cooling system back on track.
👉 Schedule your service today or ask about our Moose Maintenance Plan to keep your air conditioning unit running efficiently all summer long.


