AC Maintenance Checklist for Florida Homes

In Florida, air conditioning runs for most of the year and also keeps humidity under control. A well kept system costs less to run, lasts longer and is far less likely to quit on the hottest day of summer.

What you can do yourself

Change the filter

Check it monthly and replace it every one to three months, more often with pets or allergies. A clogged filter makes the system work harder and can freeze the coil.

Keep the condensate drain clear

Your AC pulls a lot of water out of the air. That water drains through a small pipe that clogs with algae, which can overflow and damage ceilings and floors. Every few months, pour a cup of white vinegar into the drain line access port near the indoor unit. If your system has a float switch that shuts it off when the pan fills, test it.

Care for the outdoor unit

• Keep two feet of clear space around it: trim shrubs and grass.
• Rinse dirt and grass clippings off the fins gently with a hose, with the power off. No pressure washer.
• Make sure it sits level.

Use the thermostat wisely

• Raise the temperature a few degrees when you are away instead of turning the AC off. Turning it off lets humidity and mold grow.
• A smart thermostat can handle this automatically.

Keep vents open

Closing vents in unused rooms raises pressure in the ducts and can reduce efficiency.

What a professional tune up includes

Once a year, ideally in spring before peak heat, a technician should:

• Check refrigerant levels and look for leaks
• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Flush the condensate drain and check the pan
• Test capacitors, contactors and electrical connections
• Check airflow and the temperature difference between supply and return
• Inspect ductwork connections in the attic

Warning signs to call a pro

• Warm air or weak airflow
• Ice on the lines or the indoor coil
• Water around the indoor unit
• Loud buzzing, grinding or clicking
• House feels damp or musty even when cool
• Sudden jump in your electric bill

Frequently asked questions

How long does an AC system last in Florida?

Often around 10 to 15 years, depending on maintenance and how close you live to salt air.

Is a yearly tune up worth it?

Yes. It catches small problems before they become a breakdown in August, when repair calls take longest.

Post your AC tune up or repair job and get bids from local HVAC pros, or find an HVAC pro near you.