Surviving the Summer Heat Wave in South Florida: Essential AC Maintenance Tips
May 27, 2025
With temperatures soaring, South Florida's summer heat advisories can't be ignored. Maintaining optimal indoor comfort isn't just about staying cool—it's about safety, efficiency, and managing your energy bills effectively. At Air On Demand, we want you informed and prepared to tackle extreme heat conditions. Follow these simple yet effective tips to help you stay comfortable and keep your air conditioning system running efficiently during a heat advisory.
The simplest action you can take is also one of the most important: **replace or clean your air filter regularly**. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your air conditioning system to work longer and harder, thereby increasing energy consumption and reducing system lifespan. Ensuring clean filters boosts efficiency, improves indoor air quality, and protects your AC from preventable breakdowns.
Ceiling fans can complement your air conditioning system by circulating cool air more effectively. Fans help distribute cooled air evenly throughout your home, which can lower the perceived temperature by about 4°F. Remember, ceiling fans cool people—not rooms—so turn them off when no one's around to enjoy the cooling effect. This practice enhances comfort while reducing unnecessary energy usage.
Your windows are the primary entry points for outdoor heat. Closing blinds and curtains, particularly on sun*facing windows, significantly reduces heat gain and keeps rooms noticeably cooler. Simple window coverings reflect sunlight away and ease the stress on your air conditioner.
Many homeowners think turning off their AC completely when leaving home saves energy. Unfortunately, this approach often results in higher energy bills due to the heavy workload required to cool the home down again. A smarter energy*saving practice is to leave your thermostat set between **78°–79°F**. This maintains a comfortable, consistent indoor temperature and humidity level, reduces strain on your equipment, and keeps your energy bills lower compared to restarting a completely off system.
Wondering if your air conditioner is functioning correctly during peak heat conditions? A quick nighttime test can provide important insights:
If your AC easily achieves the targets overnight but struggles during midday heat, it's likely due to extreme daytime temperatures common in South Florida, rather than equipment malfunctions. However, multiple other home factors may contribute to reduced daytime performance including:
Encountering any of these issues? Our experienced HVAC technicians at Air On Demand are ready to assess your situation and recommend practical, effective solutions.
Not sure your air conditioner is functioning optimally? It's always better to get professional advice. Scheduling regular AC maintenance helps spot minor issues before they turn into substantial, costly problems. At Air On Demand, our qualified team can quickly evaluate your air conditioning system, making sure your home remains cool, comfortable, and safe during even the hottest days.
Don’t let this summer’s heat advisory put your home comfort at risk. Call Air On Demand today or schedule a visit online for expert South Florida AC service!