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Florida’s hot, humid climate presents unique challenges for homeowners and their HVAC systems. The combination of high temperatures, humidity, and occasional severe weather can put considerable strain on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Understanding the most common HVAC problems in Florida — and knowing how to prevent them — can help you maintain a comfortable home, avoid unexpected repairs, and keep energy costs under control.
Below, we’ll cover common HVAC issues faced by Florida homeowners and provide actionable tips to prevent them.
Problem: Clogged or dirty air filters are one of the most common HVAC issues. In Florida, where systems work hard year-round, air filters can quickly accumulate dust, pollen, pet hair, and other particles. Clogged filters reduce airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder to cool or heat your home, which increases energy consumption and wears down system components.
Prevention: Regularly changing your air filter is an easy way to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. During Florida’s hot, high-use months, check and replace filters every 1–2 months, or even more frequently if you have pets or allergies. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can also improve indoor air quality by capturing smaller particles.
Problem: Refrigerant leaks are a frequent issue in humid and hot climates like Florida’s. Refrigerant is essential for cooling, as it absorbs heat and transfers it outside your home. Low refrigerant levels cause the system to work harder, which can result in poor cooling, higher energy bills, and eventual compressor failure.
Prevention: Schedule regular HVAC maintenance to check refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks. If your home is not cooling effectively or if you notice unusual hissing or bubbling sounds, contact a professional technician to diagnose and repair any leaks. Using a licensed HVAC contractor is crucial, as refrigerant is a hazardous material that requires proper handling.
Problem: Thermostat issues are common in older HVAC systems or in homes with outdated thermostats. A malfunctioning thermostat can result in inconsistent temperatures, system short cycling, or even total HVAC failure. Thermostats may malfunction due to poor calibration, dead batteries, or loose wiring.
Prevention: Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat is one of the best ways to avoid thermostat-related issues. These thermostats allow you to set specific temperatures for different times of day, improving energy efficiency. Regularly check thermostat batteries and keep it away from direct sunlight and other heat sources to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Problem: In Florida’s warm climate, frozen evaporator coils may seem counterintuitive, but they’re actually a common HVAC issue. When airflow is restricted (often due to a dirty filter or refrigerant leak), the evaporator coil becomes too cold, causing moisture to freeze on the coils. This not only limits your HVAC’s cooling ability but can also cause serious damage to the system.
Prevention: Prevent coil freezing by ensuring adequate airflow. Regularly replace filters, keep the vents open, and schedule periodic maintenance to inspect and clean the evaporator coils. If you notice your system struggling to cool, or if there’s visible frost on the coils, contact an HVAC technician to inspect your system.
Problem: Florida’s high humidity means that HVAC systems have to remove a lot of moisture from the air. This moisture is directed out of your home through a condensate drain line. However, if the line becomes clogged with dirt, algae, or other debris, it can lead to water backup and leaks. Over time, this moisture can lead to mold growth and even structural damage.
Prevention: Regularly check the condensate line and keep it clean to prevent clogs. Pouring a small amount of vinegar down the line can help eliminate algae growth. Scheduling routine maintenance with an HVAC technician will also ensure the line is cleared and functioning properly.
Problem: Florida’s frequent thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes can cause power surges, which can damage HVAC electrical components, including capacitors, contactors, and wiring. These electrical parts are essential for system functionality, and any damage can result in poor performance or a complete system breakdown.
Prevention: Install surge protectors to safeguard your HVAC system from power surges, especially during storm season. Regular maintenance should also include inspection of electrical components, as they may wear out over time. If you notice unusual buzzing noises or your HVAC isn’t running properly, an electrical issue could be the cause, and it’s best to consult a professional.
Problem: Short cycling occurs when your HVAC system turns on and off frequently without completing a full cooling or heating cycle. This can happen when your system is oversized for your home, when there are refrigerant issues, or due to thermostat malfunctions. Short cycling puts strain on your system and can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear on components.
Prevention: Ensuring your HVAC system is correctly sized for your home can help prevent short cycling. When it’s time to replace your HVAC system, work with a qualified HVAC contractor who can conduct a load calculation to determine the right system size for your home. Regularly checking the thermostat and refrigerant levels can also help prevent short cycling.
Problem: In Florida, high humidity and pollen levels can exacerbate indoor air quality issues. Poor air quality not only affects comfort but can also lead to health issues for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens can accumulate in ductwork and filters, spreading throughout your home each time the system cycles on.
Prevention: Regular maintenance, air filter replacement, can help improve indoor air quality. Consider investing in high-efficiency filters or an air purifier for your HVAC system. For added protection against mold and allergens, install a dehumidifier to control humidity levels and keep them below 60%.
Problem: The compressor is the heart of an HVAC system, responsible for pressurizing refrigerant and distributing cool air throughout your home. However, compressors are particularly vulnerable in Florida’s climate, as they endure continuous use. Issues like refrigerant leaks, electrical problems, or overheating can all lead to compressor failure, which is a costly repair.
Prevention: Scheduling annual maintenance is essential to prevent compressor problems. An HVAC technician can check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, and clean the compressor to ensure it’s in good condition. Addressing smaller issues early can help avoid the high cost of compressor replacement.
Preventing HVAC problems is all about proactive care, especially in Florida’s challenging climate. At Lawson HVAC, we specialize in maintaining and repairing HVAC systems for homeowners in Tallahassee, Wakulla, Crawfordville, and the surrounding areas. Our team provides expert maintenance, repairs, and installations to ensure your system is running efficiently year-round.
If you’re experiencing HVAC issues or want to schedule routine maintenance to prevent costly repairs, contact Lawson HVAC today! Our skilled technicians will ensure your system is well-equipped to handle Florida’s heat and humidity while helping you save on energy bills and avoid inconvenient breakdowns
The fastest way to get in touch with us is to call or text us at call or text us at (850) 778 - 7999 but if that doesn’t work for you, feel free to reach out here and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
