Question 1

Why is my AC running but not cooling?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes are a dirty air filter restricting airflow, low refrigerant due to a leak, a frozen evaporator coil, or a failing capacitor or compressor. Start by checking your filter — if it's clogged, replace it and see if cooling improves. If the problem continues, call us for a diagnosis. We'll find the root cause and give you a written quote before any repair work begins.

Question 2

How do I know if my AC needs refrigerant?

Accepted Answer

Signs of low refrigerant include warm air blowing from vents, ice forming on the refrigerant lines or outdoor unit, a hissing or bubbling noise near the unit, and higher-than-normal electric bills. Refrigerant doesn't 'use up' — if it's low, there's a leak that needs to be found and repaired first. Adding refrigerant without fixing the leak is a temporary fix at best.

Question 3

What does it mean when my AC makes a loud noise?

Accepted Answer

Different sounds indicate different problems: grinding or squealing usually means a failing motor bearing; banging or clanking suggests a loose or broken part inside the unit; clicking at startup and shutdown is normal, but constant clicking points to a control board or relay issue; rattling often means debris has gotten inside the outdoor unit. Any unusual noise warrants a service call — catching mechanical problems early is always cheaper.

Question 4

My AC keeps tripping the circuit breaker. What's wrong?

Accepted Answer

A repeatedly tripping breaker usually means the AC is drawing too much power, which can be caused by a dirty air filter (forcing the system to work harder), a failing capacitor, a short in the wiring, or a compressor that's beginning to fail. Don't keep resetting the breaker — continued tripping can damage other components. Turn the system off and call us for a diagnosis.

Question 5

Why is there water leaking from my indoor unit?

Accepted Answer

The most common cause is a clogged condensate drain line. Your AC removes humidity from the air, and that moisture drains out through a small pipe. When that pipe clogs with algae or debris, water backs up and overflows the drain pan. This is one of the most common — and most preventable — AC problems in Florida. Our maintenance visits include clearing and repriming the drain line every time.

Question 6

How much does an AC repair typically cost in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Most common repairs range from $150 to $750. Simple fixes like capacitor replacement or drain line clearing are on the lower end. Refrigerant leak repairs and coil cleaning fall in the middle. Compressor replacement can run $800–$1,500+, at which point we'll discuss whether replacement makes more financial sense than repair. We always give you a written quote before any work begins — no surprises.

Question 7

How do I know what size AC I need for my home?

Accepted Answer

AC sizing is more complex than square footage alone. A proper Manual J load calculation considers your home's square footage, ceiling height, insulation quality, window size and orientation, local climate, and how many people live there. An oversized system will short-cycle (turn on and off too frequently), wasting energy and leaving humidity high. An undersized system will run constantly and never fully cool. We size every system correctly — not just by a rule of thumb.

Question 8

What SEER rating should I look for in Florida?

Accepted Answer

SEER2 is the current efficiency rating standard. In Florida's climate, we recommend at least 15–16 SEER2 for a good balance of upfront cost and long-term savings. Higher-end systems (18–20 SEER2) cost more upfront but can meaningfully reduce your monthly electric bill if your home is well-insulated. We'll show you the math on payback period so you can make an informed decision.

Question 9

How long does a new AC installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most standard residential installations — replacing an existing split system — are completed in 4–6 hours. We handle all the heavy lifting, including removing the old equipment, installing the new system, verifying refrigerant charge, testing operation, and cleaning up completely before we leave. You'll have cold air by end of day.

Question 10

What AC brands do you install?

Accepted Answer

We install all major brands: Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Daikin, Rheem, Goodman, York, American Standard, Mitsubishi (mini splits), LG, and Samsung. We'll recommend the right brand and model for your home's needs and budget — we're not tied to any single manufacturer.

Question 11

How long should a new AC system last in Florida?

Accepted Answer

In Florida's demanding climate — where AC runs nearly year-round — a well-maintained system typically lasts 12–17 years. Systems that receive annual maintenance tend to last longer and have fewer mid-life breakdowns. Without maintenance, 10–12 years is a more realistic expectation. Coastal homes with salt-air exposure may see shorter lifespans without corrosion protection measures.

Question 12

Do you offer financing for new AC installations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with financing partners to offer flexible payment options, including low-monthly-payment plans and promotional 0% interest periods. Ask us about current financing offers when you call, or use our Instant Estimate tool on the website to get a price range first.

Question 13

How often should I have my AC serviced in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Once a year, minimum. In Florida's climate, your AC runs far more hours per year than in most states — some systems run 10–12 months out of the year. That extra wear makes annual maintenance especially important. We recommend scheduling in early spring (March–April) before summer heat arrives, so any issues are caught and resolved before peak season.

Question 14

What's included in an AC tune-up?

Accepted Answer

Our $225 tune-up covers: evaporator coil inspection, condenser hose-down, condensate drain clearing and repriming, drain pan and float switch check, blower motor inspection, refrigerant level check, capacitor and contactor check, compressor operation test, thermostat test and calibration, electrical connection inspection, and a full performance report. We don't cut corners — every item on our 25-point checklist gets checked.

Question 15

How often should I change my air filter?

Accepted Answer

Check your filter monthly and replace it every 1–3 months depending on your home. Homes with pets, dusty environments, or multiple occupants need more frequent changes. A clogged filter is the single most common cause of AC problems — it restricts airflow, forces the system to work harder, and can lead to frozen coils, compressor stress, and higher electric bills. It's the easiest and cheapest maintenance you can do.

Question 16

Is AC maintenance worth the cost?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Studies consistently show that 80% of AC breakdowns are preventable with regular maintenance. A $225 tune-up can prevent a $600+ repair. It also keeps your system running at peak efficiency (saving on electric bills), extends system life, and is often required to maintain your manufacturer's warranty. Think of it like an oil change for your car.

Question 17

How does Florida's humidity affect my AC system?

Accepted Answer

Florida's humidity (often 80–90% in summer) puts a heavy burden on AC systems. Your system has to work to remove moisture from the air, not just lower the temperature. An oversized or poorly maintained system may cool the air quickly without adequately dehumidifying it, leaving you in a cold but clammy home. The right system, sized and maintained correctly, handles both temperature and humidity.

Question 18

Does salt air damage AC systems near the coast?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Salt air accelerates corrosion on outdoor condenser coils and electrical components. If you live near the Gulf or Atlantic coast, we recommend: annual coil cleaning (not just hosing down), corrosion-resistant coil coatings, systems with factory-coated coils (like Carrier's WeatherArmor or Trane's Spine Fin coils), and keeping the area around your outdoor unit clean. Our maintenance visits for coastal properties include salt-air specific checks.

Question 19

Should I turn my AC off when I leave for vacation?

Accepted Answer

No — don't turn it completely off. Florida's humidity can cause bacteria growth growth and warping inside a closed, uncooled home within days. Set your thermostat to 82–85°F while away. This saves energy while keeping humidity low enough to protect your home and belongings. If you have a smart thermostat, you can monitor and adjust it remotely.

Question 20

Why does my AC freeze up in Florida's summer heat?

Accepted Answer

Freezing is usually caused by restricted airflow (dirty filter or blocked vents), low refrigerant, or a failing blower motor. When airflow is insufficient, the evaporator coil gets too cold and ice forms — even in 95°F heat. If your system is freezing, turn it off (set to fan-only or off), let it thaw for 1–2 hours, check and replace the filter, then turn it back on. If it freezes again, call us — you likely have a refrigerant leak or mechanical issue.

Question 21

Is it normal for my AC to run constantly in Florida summer?

Accepted Answer

During Florida's hottest days (heat index above 100°F), it's normal for your system to run most of the time. What's not normal is if it runs constantly but never reaches the set temperature. That indicates a problem: a system that's too small, a refrigerant leak, dirty coils, or significant duct leakage. If your AC is running nonstop but can't keep up, call us for a diagnosis.

Question 22

Do you charge a trip fee or diagnostic fee?

Accepted Answer

We charge a service call fee for diagnostic visits, which is applied toward the repair if you proceed with us. We'll tell you the service call fee upfront when you call — no hidden surprises. For most locations within our primary service areas (Immokalee, Naples, Spring Hill, and surrounding cities), the service call fee is straightforward with no extra travel charges.

Question 23

Do you offer after-hours or emergency service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer 24/7 emergency service. When you call after hours, a real person answers — not an automated system or answering service. Emergency service calls include an after-hours fee of $150, which is disclosed when you call. We know AC breakdowns don't wait for business hours, especially in Florida's summer heat.

Question 24

Do you provide written quotes before starting work?

Accepted Answer

Always. We never start work without giving you a written price first and getting your approval. We explain what's wrong, why it happened, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you don't fix it. You decide — no pressure.

Question 25

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Brands Cooling and Heating holds Florida HVAC contractor license CAC1824494. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Our technicians are NATE Certified — the industry's leading professional certification for HVAC technicians.

Question 26

Do you service all AC brands?

Accepted Answer

Yes — that's literally in our name. We service all brands: Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Daikin, Rheem, Goodman, York, American Standard, Mitsubishi, LG, Samsung, Bryant, Payne, Heil, Ruud, Amana, and more. If it has refrigerant and a compressor, we can work on it.

Question 27

How do I know if my ducts need cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Signs your ductwork needs cleaning include visible dust blowing from vents, musty or stale odors when the system runs, worsening allergy symptoms indoors, and visible bacteria growth or debris around vent covers. In Florida, high humidity makes ducts especially prone to bacteria growth and mildew buildup. We recommend duct cleaning every 3–5 years, or sooner if you've had a renovation, rodent intrusion, or a bacteria growth issue in the home.

Question 28

What does professional duct cleaning include?

Accepted Answer

Professional duct cleaning involves using high-powered vacuum equipment to remove dust, debris, bacteria growth spores, and allergens from your entire duct system — supply ducts, return ducts, and all registers. We also clean the air handler compartment and blower. After cleaning, many customers notice improved airflow, better air quality, and reduced dust on surfaces throughout their home.

Question 29

What is a duct changeout and when is it necessary?

Accepted Answer

A duct changeout means replacing all or most of your home's ductwork with new material. This is typically needed when ducts are old, collapsed, disconnected, severely deteriorated, or improperly sized for the current system. Many Florida homes built before the 1990s have flex duct that has degraded over time — sagging, kinked, or separating at connections — which causes major airflow loss and efficiency drops. A full duct changeout can dramatically improve comfort, reduce electric bills, and extend system life.

Question 30

How long does a duct changeout take?

Accepted Answer

Most residential duct changeouts are completed in one day. The timeline depends on home size and duct accessibility — single-story homes with attic access are typically faster than multi-story or homes with ductwork in tight crawlspaces. We'll give you a clear timeline upfront. Your system will be fully operational before we leave.

Question 31

Will new ductwork lower my electric bill?

Accepted Answer

Often yes — significantly. Leaky, sagging, or disconnected ducts can cause 20–30% of your conditioned air to be lost before it reaches your living spaces. That's money you're spending to cool your attic instead of your home. New properly sealed and insulated ductwork means your system runs less and your home reaches temperature faster. Most customers notice the difference immediately.

Question 32

Why does my drain line keep clogging?

Accepted Answer

Florida's heat and humidity create ideal conditions for algae and bacteria growth to grow inside your condensate drain line. Your AC removes large amounts of moisture from the air, and that water flows through a small pipe to drain outside. Algae builds up inside that pipe over time and eventually causes a clog. Without preventive treatment, most Florida homeowners can expect a clog every 1–2 years — some experience them multiple times per season.

Question 33

What happens if my drain line clogs?

Accepted Answer

When the drain line clogs, water backs up into the drain pan. If the pan fills, water overflows into your ceiling, walls, or floor — causing water damage and potential bacteria growth growth. Many systems have a float switch that shuts the system off when the pan fills, which is a good safety feature but leaves you without AC until the line is cleared. We see water damage from clogged drain lines regularly — it's one of the most preventable AC-related problems in Florida.

Question 34

What is an AC MaxTech or iFlo drain management system?

Accepted Answer

These are automatic drain line management devices we install on your system. The AC MaxTech uses a pump to actively push condensate water out, while the iFlo system uses Wi-Fi connected sensors and automatic flushing to keep the line clear. Both eliminate the need for manual drain line flushing and dramatically reduce the risk of clogs and water damage. We include these with qualifying system installs and maintenance plans.

Question 35

How can I prevent drain line clogs between service visits?

Accepted Answer

The simplest DIY prevention is pouring a cup of white vinegar into the drain line access port (a PVC pipe near the indoor unit) every 1–3 months. This discourages algae growth. Keep the area around the drain pan clean and check it periodically for standing water. Our maintenance visits always include clearing and repriming the drain line — this is one of the most valuable parts of a professional tune-up.

Question 36

What is the single best thing I can do to make my AC last longer?

Accepted Answer

Annual professional maintenance. It's not even close. A yearly tune-up keeps components clean, catches small problems before they cascade into major failures, maintains refrigerant charge, and keeps electrical connections tight. Studies show properly maintained systems last 3–5 years longer than unmaintained ones. In Florida, where your system runs nearly year-round, that maintenance is even more critical.

Question 37

How often should I change my air filter to protect my system?

Accepted Answer

Check it monthly, replace it every 1–3 months. A clogged filter is the leading cause of premature AC failure — it forces the system to overwork, overheats components, strains the compressor, and causes freeze-ups. Use a mid-grade filter (MERV 8–11). Very high-MERV filters can actually restrict airflow too much for standard residential systems. Cheap fiberglass filters let too much debris through. A good mid-range filter changed regularly is the sweet spot.

Question 38

Does keeping my thermostat at a consistent temperature help the system last longer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Extreme temperature swings make your system work in short, hard bursts — which is harder on the compressor than steady, consistent operation. Set a comfortable temperature and leave it. Raising the setpoint a few degrees when you're away (78–80°F) is smart, but wildly swinging the thermostat causes unnecessary wear. Smart thermostats that gradually adjust instead of blasting the system are a worthwhile investment.

Question 39

How does keeping the outdoor unit clean extend system life?

Accepted Answer

The outdoor condenser unit needs clear airflow to reject heat. When it's surrounded by overgrown shrubs, covered in leaves and debris, or coated with dirt, it has to work harder to do the same job — raising operating temperatures and stressing the compressor. Keep at least 18–24 inches of clearance around all sides. Gently hose down the coil fins annually. In coastal areas, rinse off salt deposits regularly to prevent corrosion.

Question 40

When should I repair vs. replace my AC system?

Accepted Answer

Use the 5,000 rule: multiply the system's age by the repair cost. If the result exceeds $5,000, replacement is usually the smarter financial move. For example, a 10-year-old system needing a $600 repair scores 6,000 — lean toward replacement. A 5-year-old system needing the same repair scores 3,000 — repair it. Also consider: if the compressor fails on a system over 10 years old, full replacement almost always makes more sense than compressor replacement. We'll give you an honest recommendation either way.

Frequently Asked Questions

AC Repair

New AC Installation

Maintenance & Tune-Ups

Florida-Specific Questions

Service & Pricing

Duct Cleaning & Changeouts

Drain Line Management

Extending HVAC System Life