The cycling pattern of your air conditioning system, with it running for approximately 7 minutes and then turning off for 9 minutes before running again, can be considered normal. Air conditioning systems are designed to cycle on and off based on the temperature settings and the cooling demands of the space.
The duration of cooling cycles can vary depending on several factors, including the outside temperature, insulation of the home, size of the space being cooled, and the efficiency and capacity of the AC unit. In your case, with an outside temperature of 86°F and a set temperature of 74°F, the cycling pattern you described is within the typical range.
The AC running for 7 minutes suggests that it is actively cooling the space and reaching the desired temperature, while the subsequent 9-minute off period indicates that the thermostat has detected that the temperature has been sufficiently lowered, and the AC temporarily shuts off. This cycling process helps maintain a consistent temperature and prevents the system from overworking or continuously running when not needed.
If you have concerns about the efficiency or performance of your AC unit, it's always a good idea to have it checked by a professional HVAC technician who can assess its operation and ensure everything is functioning optimally.