Spring is the ideal time to prep your AC before South Florida's brutal summer heat arrives. Catching issues now avoids emergency calls in July.

• Replace air filterStandard 1" filters every 30–60 days; 4–5" media filters every 6 months. A clogged filter is the #1 cause of AC failure.
• Clean the outdoor condenser coilsRinse fins gently with a garden hose (top-down). Dirty coils reduce efficiency by up to 30% and cause the compressor to overheat.
• Clear debris from around the outdoor unitMaintain at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides. Trim shrubs, remove leaves, and check for pest nests.
• Test cooling mode before the heat hitsRun the system for 15 minutes and confirm cool air at every register. Note any warm spots or weak airflow.

Your AC runs nearly 24/7 in a South Florida summer. Monthly monitoring keeps small problems from becoming expensive breakdowns during peak heat.

• Check and replace air filter monthlyIn summer, filters clog faster due to increased runtime. Check every 3–4 weeks and replace when visibly gray.
• Monitor energy bills for sudden spikesA 15–20% increase without a change in usage habits signals a refrigerant leak, dirty coils, or failing components.
• Keep condensate drain line clearHigh humidity means more condensation. Check the drain pan monthly for standing water — a full pan triggers a safety shutoff.
• Check indoor evaporator coil for ice buildupIce on the coil means restricted airflow or low refrigerant. Turn the system off and call a tech — running it iced up damages the compressor.

Fall is your post-summer recovery window. Inspect for wear from the heavy season and prepare the system for the occasional cool nights ahead.

• Schedule a post-summer professional inspectionAfter 4+ months of heavy use, have a tech check refrigerant charge, electrical components, and overall system health.
• Clean or replace air filterEnd-of-summer filters are often heavily loaded. Replace before shifting to heating season.
• Test heat mode before the first cold frontSouth Florida does get cool nights. Run heat for 10 minutes to confirm it works — don't wait until you need it.
• Inspect ductwork for leaks or damageSummer's thermal expansion and contraction can loosen duct joints. Check accessible sections for gaps and seal with mastic.

South Florida winters are mild, but your HVAC still runs. Use the lower-demand months to address deferred maintenance and plan any upgrades.

• Replace air filter on scheduleEven in lower-use months, filters still collect dust and allergens. Stick to your replacement schedule.
• Check and clean indoor air handler coilThe evaporator coil inside your air handler accumulates dust over time. A dirty coil reduces airflow and efficiency.
• Inspect electrical connections and capacitorsLoose wiring and weak capacitors are leading causes of no-start failures. A tech can test capacitor health with a multimeter.
• Lubricate fan motor bearings if applicableOlder units with oil ports should be lubricated annually. Dry bearings cause squealing and eventual motor failure.

What You Can DIY vs. What Needs a Pro

Frequently Asked Questions