Is Your HVAC Ready for Florida’s Temperature Swings?
Florida is a great state to live in but doesn’t always have the greatest weather. For your HVAC, the worst part is the constant temperature swings. It’s not uncommon to need heat and air conditioning both in the same 24-hour period, with cool mornings becoming blazing afternoons.
These fluctuations put a lot of strain on your HVAC system, making it hard for you to stay comfortable through the day and night, and shortening its life. Here are some ways to ensure your unit is ready for the challenge.
Why Do Temperature Swings Matter?
In many places, the temperature stays reasonably steady through each season. Florida is not one of those places. When your system switches between heating and cooling rapidly, it increases wear and tear, shorting the life of your system and necessitating expensive repairs. It also means your system is not running efficiently, resulting in higher bills and inconsistent temperatures that aren’t comfortable for you.
Tips to Prepare Your HVAC For Temperature Swings
So, how can you help your HVAC get ready for these temperature swings and both save money and enjoy improved comfort in your home? Here are some tips:
1. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Schedule routine maintenance before Florida enters into one of those times when things fluctuate wildly. A professional technician should inspect and clean critical components of your system during routine maintenance done a couple of times a year. Have them check that your system can switch between heating and cooling smoothly.
Routine maintenance is important in the spring, as Florida summers can put a lot of strain on your system. It also reduces the risk of your HVAC system failing at the worst possible time and avoids costly repairs.
2. Upgrade Your Thermostat
Do temperature fluctuations have you diving for the thermostat, desperately trying to get the temperature right? If so, then not only is this inconvenient for you, but it’s also causing your system to work too hard, adding wear and tear and causing your utility bills to soar.
A smart thermostat can do a better job of keeping everything steady. It can also adjust your temperature to match your preferences or schedule. For example, you can set cooling at night or when nobody is home and start to bring temperatures to a comfortable range before you arrive. This can save energy without compromising comfort. We can professionally install smart thermostats in any home.
3. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters
Clean your air filters every one to three months and replace them if worn. You should replace filters more often if you have pets or if anyone in your household is sensitive to dust.
Dirty air filters block some of the flow through your system, reducing efficiency in general, but causing problems during temperature swings. Dirty filters can blow dust back into your house, triggering allergy symptoms.
4. Check your Ductwork
Leaky ducts can cause inconsistent heating or cooling, leading to hot and cold spots that can become even more obvious during times of fluctuating temperatures. Your system may also overwork itself trying to get a cold spot to warm up, or vice versa.
Inspect your ductwork periodically and make sure it is properly sealed and insulated. This typically requires the assistance of a professional.
5. Consider a System Upgrade
If your HVAC system is more than ten years old, it may struggle to keep up. Modern systems also handle fluctuating temperatures better with much less energy. It’s worth looking into upgrading your system, and if it is fifteen years old or more, it’s time to get a quote on a new system.
A modern system will provide more consistent comfort for lower bills and is less likely to break down on the hottest day of the year.
Why Choose Mid-Fla Heating & Air?
We know Florida. We know the unique challenges of this climate. Our team of experts provides comprehensive services. Choose Mid-Fla Heating & Air for maintenance, filter support, smart thermostat installation, duct inspections, and system upgrades.
We are available for emergency repairs 24/7 and don’t charge overtime fees.
Don’t Let Florida’s Weather Catch You Off Guard
Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, with daily fluctuations that can put an unexpected strain on your HVAC system. Prepare your system today by scheduling maintenance, upgrading your thermostat, or installing a new system to replace one that has reached the end of its lifespan.
We can handle everything! Contact Mid-Fla Heating & Air to have us inspect your system today and help you determine what it needs to face these weather fluctuations and keep your home comfortable.
