How often should I service my AC in Florida?
We recommend a professional tune-up twice a year: in spring, before cooling season, and in fall. At minimum, have it done once a year. On the Space Coast the AC runs much of the year, and heat pumps may also heat in winter. ENERGY STAR also recommends pre-season check-ups, because contractors get busy once summer arrives (ENERGY STAR).
Your homeowner checklist
1. Check the filter monthly. Replace it every 1 to 3 months. Lean toward monthly if you use 1-inch filters, have pets or allergies, or your system runs a lot. A dirty filter "can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure" (ENERGY STAR). Use the size printed on the old filter's frame.
2. Keep the condensate drain flowing. In cooling season, pour about a cup of white vinegar into the condensate drain access port once a month. Your AC pulls a lot of water out of humid Florida air, and ENERGY STAR warns that "a plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels." If you see water in the pan or on the floor, call.
3. Keep the outdoor unit clear and rinsed. Keep 2 feet clear around it: trim plants, remove leaves and debris, and point sprinklers away. Gently hose-rinse it with fresh water a few times a year, and more often near salt air. Turn the system off first, and never use a pressure washer. More in Coastal AC Units on the Space Coast.
4. Keep vents open and returns unblocked by furniture, rugs or curtains.
5. Replace the thermostat batteries yearly. While you're there, make sure the schedule still fits how you live. See our thermostat and humidity guide.
Call a technician for anything inside panels, refrigerant or electrical work. Ask Mikey if you're not sure.
What does a professional tune-up include?
Our tune-up includes a coil rinse, which matters on the Space Coast, where salt air and pollen build up on the outdoor coil. A technician also handles the jobs that aren't safe for homeowners: anything inside panels, refrigerant or electrical. If refrigerant is low, the leak should be found and fixed. See R-22 Phase-Out.
Seasonal extras on the Space Coast
- Before hurricane season: check the pad or stand, clear the area and know how to shut the system off. See Hurricane Prep and Post-Storm AC Checks.
- Before leaving for the summer: set the system to manage humidity while you're away, and have the drain checked. FSEC research in Brevard County found that simply raising the thermostat in a closed-up home often didn't control humidity (FSEC).
- Light commercial: storefronts, offices, churches and restaurants follow the same checklist. Filters may need changing more often depending on use.
When maintenance turns into a bigger question
If your system is older, needs frequent repairs or isn't keeping you comfortable, a check-up is a good time to ask about the long view. EPA recommends a professional evaluation if equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable (EPA). See Repair or Replace? and SEER2 Explained.
FPL A/C rebate basics
FPL has offered A/C rebates to residential customers, with its own equipment and installer requirements. Those programs change, so check FPL's A/C rebate page for current details and eligibility before you plan around a rebate.
The next step
Book a check-up or ask a question. See HVAC maintenance.
- Start My Estimate
- Ask Mikey (Mikey is free)
- Call (321) 405-1806
Firefighters, law enforcement, EMS and paramedics, healthcare workers, teachers, ministry, government employees and military (active and veterans) can get 10% off the total, up to $2,500, on new units and repairs through our Local Heroes program. Family members of eligible heroes qualify too. It can't be combined with other offers.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I service my AC in Florida?
We recommend a professional tune-up twice a year, in spring before cooling season and in fall. At minimum, once a year.
What does an AC tune-up include?
Our tune-up includes a coil rinse. A technician also handles anything inside panels, refrigerant or electrical work.
How often should I change my AC filter?
Check it monthly and replace it every 1 to 3 months. Closer to monthly for 1-inch filters, pets, allergies or heavy run time.
Can I clean my outdoor unit myself?
Yes. Turn it off and gently hose-rinse it with fresh water a few times a year, more often near salt air. Never use a pressure washer, and keep 2 feet clear around it. Leave panels, wiring and refrigerant to a technician.
Why is water leaking from my AC?
A clogged condensate drain is a common cause. Turn the system off if water is spreading, and call for service.
Sources
Written by OBC Air & Heat, Space Coast, Brevard County, FL. State Certified Air Conditioning Contractor, License No. CAC1825377. General information only; your system and home are reviewed before any recommendation.
