It hit 28f in my yard....the official low in orlando was 30. One of my unprotected cocos has minor damage, the other I wrapped and the fruit on it is getting very large. Mike real estate down here has gotten dirt cheap...great time to buy...probably won't see this cheap again in our lifetime.

I agree with Klem1. There's many causes that it could be. I am doubtful that it needs any more refer unless you can find a leak. Typically if there are no leaks then the amount of refer isn't the problem unless it never had the right amount added. Also, about the fan not turning off, check the wiring behind the T-stat as well as at the furnace to ensure they are not poorly installed.

Assuming the system has worked fine in the past, it should be capable of cooling your house now. Global warming notwithstanding, this year hasn't been that much hotter than the preceding 4 years, so there's something wrong with your system. I'd contact the service manager or owner of the company you've been using and let them know you didn't understand the last tech's response to your question and that the system still isn't working correctly. You will likely need a new system soon but you should be able to get this one up and running to, minimally, the performance of previous years, even if its only for a few months.

I'm in z5 too, but I'm not dealing w/ clay, low humidity, or really strong winds... Have you tried Evans (aka Bali) cherry? very reliable for me. Re apples, I have a young Lodi that produces early and lots of perfect apples with no spraying -- they're not good keepers or great for fresh eating, but they're good for sauce and pies and such, especially since they're so early to produce.