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When Florida’s summer heat arrives, your air conditioner becomes your best friend. But all too often, homeowners find themselves sweating through unexpected breakdowns during the hottest time of year. At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we get the calls every summer: ACs that won’t turn on, units blowing warm air, or systems shutting off mid-cycle.
So why does this happen and how can you prevent it?
Let’s take a closer look at the most common reasons AC systems break down in summer and what you can do to keep your home cool, comfortable, and worry-free.
Constant Overuse Pushes Systems to the Limit
Florida summers are long, humid, and relentlessly hot. Your AC system often runs around the clock just to maintain a livable indoor temperature. That non-stop operation adds wear and tear quickly, especially if the system wasn’t designed to handle such intense use or hasn’t been serviced in a while.
Older systems may struggle to keep up, especially if they haven’t received regular tune-ups or have a low SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and haven’t been upgraded to meet SEER2 efficiency standards. These systems tend to run longer cycles, consume more energy, and wear down faster in high-demand conditions.
Skipping Maintenance Shortens Lifespan
One of the top reasons for summer breakdowns is lack of routine maintenance. When filters are clogged, airflow drops, and your system has to work much harder, raising the risk of overheating. Dirty condenser or evaporator coils can also reduce cooling efficiency and force your AC to run longer just to achieve the desired temperature.
Neglecting regular inspections means minor issues—like low refrigerant levels or a loose electrical connection—can escalate into full-blown failures when the system is under heavy load. Regular maintenance helps you catch and fix these problems early.
Tip: It’s never too late to schedule maintenance if you didn’t do so in spring. Our technicians will clean your system, inspect all components, and make sure everything is running smoothly.
How to Avoid Summer AC Breakdowns
Preventing an AC failure in the middle of a heatwave isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation. Here are a few ways you can protect your comfort:
- Schedule Pre-Season Maintenance: Don’t wait until it’s 95° outside. Have your system professionally inspected and tuned up each spring.
- Change Filters Regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow and strain your system. Replace them every 1-2 months in the summer, depending on use.
- Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit: Remove debris, grass clippings, or overgrown plants that can block airflow.
Consider an Upgrade: If your system is more than 10-12 years old, it may be time for a high-efficiency replacement that meets SEER2 standards.
Stay Cool and Comfortable With Bayonet
At Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we know Florida summers don’t play around—and your AC system shouldn’t either. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, emergency repair, or a brand-new system, we’re here to help.
It’s No Sweat: Call Bayonet! Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule AC services in Sarasota, FL today!