Common Bad HVAC Habits
September 30, 2021
Between boiling summers and the random surprise freak winter freeze, Floridians rely on our HVAC systems to keep us functional year-round. But we often take it for granted and end up with some very bad HVAC habits.
Many of us have to admit that living in Florida just wouldn’t be possible without modern HVAC technology. It’s so important, we even have a museum dedicated to the man who invented air conditioning.
What Are the Most Common Bad HVAC Habits in Florida
The extremes in temperature and humidity that come with life in the Sunshine State can mean that Floridians often fall into many of the same bad habits:
1. Cranking Down the Thermostat
Turning your thermostat down lower than normal to cool your home down “faster” is one of the most common bad HVAC habits. It just doesn’t work. Turning down the thermostat lower just means it will take longer to get to that setting.
Ironically, many of us forget we turned it down too low and then turning it back up too high.
2. Air Filter Ignorance
Putting off air filter changes or using the wrong one is another bad habit. The air filter screens out contaminants before air enters your HVAC system. This helps clean the air for you, but it also helps protect your system. If you neglect to change the filter, it will clog up and block airflow to your system.
Many homeowners also buy the wrong filter. For the sake of health, they may install a filter that is too fine for their system. This reduces air flow to the system as well.
3. Maintenance Indifference
If you live in Florida, your HVAC is a life-support system. Ignoring that notification that it’s time to get your system checked and cleaned is pulling the plug on your own comfort.
Dirty systems result in frozen-over condenser coils, and that means no more cool air until you can defrost the unit and get your system cleaned. This can take several days.
So, staying on top of regular maintenance is critical.
4. Ignoring Airflow
The key to staying comfortable in heat and humidity is airflow — through your HVAC system and through your home. Maintaining the air filter is only part of it. It also means taking a thoughtful look at how your home is laid out.
Survey your home and make adjustments to improve the airflow throughout.
Remove obstructions from vents, registers, and intakes.
Install shutoff timers on vent fans in bathrooms and utility rooms.
Clear vegetation from around outdoor units.
Survey doors and windows for leaks.
Use ceiling fans to improve comfort levels.
Consider adding zoned HVAC to customize airflow for maximum efficiency.