South Florida’s climate is near perfection. With ample sunshine, the breeze coming from the ocean, and temperatures that are warm and pleasant during what other regions experience as dreary winter months. However, South Florida weather doesn’t come without its downsides, one of the most notable being high humidity and summers that reach a level of scorching. Partnering with All Year Cooling to maintain your HVAC systems is essential for keeping homes pleasant, even during weather extremes and high humidity. 

How South Florida’s Climate Impacts HVAC Needs 

There are two words that consistently define the climate in South Florida – heat and humidity. Temperatures in South Florida can reach the 90s during the summer, with humidity levels that hover about 75%. While temperatures are milder during other seasons, humidity still remains high. This is the perfect formula for environmental conditions that place excess strain on HVAC systems. 

With South Florida HVAC systems, the focus is mainly on efficient cooling. Temperatures can dip during the winter but remain generally mild. While efficient heating is important for the time that it is used, cooling is the priority in most homes. When choosing an HVAC system, homeowners should look for one with advanced cooling capabilities, and with high energy efficiency that can handle the stress of South Florida’s humidity, without sacrificing indoor air quality. 

Interesting Fact: South Florida, even with its tropical climate, rarely sees temperatures climb past 100°F. This is due to a combination of the high humidity levels that prevent temps from soaring, and the breeze coming from the ocean that contributes to cooler air. 

Your Home’s Cooling and Heating Needs

The first step for homeowners in choosing an HVAC system is to understand their homes, unique heating and cooling needs. The system needs to work for the home’s size, and usage and should take into consideration other properties, such as insulation. An HVAC system that is too small will fail at meeting heating and cooling demands. On the opposite end of the spectrum is a system that is oversized, which will not only be inefficient but also create pockets of uneven temperature throughout the home. 

Pro Tip: It’s always a good idea to have a professional visit your home for an official assessment, even before beginning to research your HVAC options. An HVAC professional can help you better understand your home’s load, and consider factors such as size, window placement, and personal healing and cooling needs. This should be an assessment with no sales pressure attached. The best HVAC providers will take the time to assess your home, answer your questions, and help you move forward when ready. 

Energy Efficiency as a Priority 

Energy-efficient HVAC units are key for reducing overall energy usage and monthly utility bills. Energy efficiency is also important for minimizing the environmental impact of South Florida’s long cooling season. One way homeowners can measure a system’s efficiency is by looking for its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (usually shortened to SEER). SEER is a measure of cooling output compared to the energy input the system requires. 

When measuring SEER, the higher the number a system receives, the more energy-efficient it is. Currently, systems for South Florida homes must be at least 15 SEER or above for central air conditioning systems and heat pumps, and a minimum of 14 SEER for single package air conditioners. 

While higher SEER numbers equal greater energy efficiency, there are other factors homeowners want to consider. For example, cost. HVAC units with a higher SEER rating are more expensive than those with lower ratings. There are also typically higher repair costs for units with higher ratings as well. It’s important to consider overall initial costs, potential future costs, and energy savings when deciding on the perfect system for your home. 

Taking Control of Home Humidity

Every South Florida homeowner knows that high humidity can cause even a perfectly cooled home to feel less than comfortable. Any HVAC system installed in a South Florida home needs to be equipped to meet the demands of handling high-humidity environments and handle moisture efficiently. 

Consider adding features such as smart thermostats that help to improve humidity control by continuously monitoring moisture levels in the home, and making automated adjustments as needed. Another feature that can be added and is extremely beneficial in controlling humidity is a whole-house dehumidifier that can be implemented into the HVAC system ductwork.

Finally, work with an HVAC professional that can ensure proper ventilation, both to control humidity in the air, and to also reduce moisture buildup that can significantly affect indoor air quality. 

Comfort and Convenience with Smart Technology

When choosing the perfect HVAC system for your home, don’t neglect to consider the value of integrating smart technology to enhance both efficiency and comfort. We’ve already made mention of smart thermostats, especially for continual humidity control. Even if you’re not quite at the point of commitment with a new HVAC system, smart thermostats are compatible with most systems in today’s homes. 

Smart tools to help monitor performance and efficiency are also valuable. This is especially true for pinpointing when preventative maintenance is needed. 

Money Matters: Choosing a Budget 

Choosing the best HVAC system isn’t always a matter of looking for the one with the best ratings or performance reviews. For most homeowners, it’s a balance between quality, performance, and cost. High-efficiency systems tend to come with a higher price tag as well, while less expensive units might not meet the level of performance your home needs. 

Making the most informed decision involves comparing the upfront investment of a new HVAC system, with its projected long-term costs in terms of operating costs, and maintenance or replacement. There may also be financial incentives to consider for energy-efficient systems, such as tax credits or rebates from local utility companies. 

Finally, the upfront costs of a new HVAC system are too much for many homeowners to pay upfront and out of pocket. Financing is often available directly through HVAC contractors. While taking on debt might not be ideal, financing can help homeowners invest in a higher-quality system that meets both their immediate and long-term heating and cooling needs. 

HVAC Maintenance 

While maintenance might not be a major factor in choosing an HVAC system, following regular maintenance schedules is essential to keep the system running efficiently and maximizing its lifespan. 

Once the system has been installed, remember to replace air filters about once every one to three months. This ensures that the system is running efficiently and that proper airflow is taking place. Schedule an annual professional inspection to identify issues before they have the chance to become costly repairs. 

Regular maintenance should also include duct and coil cleaning to remove any debris and dust buildup that could lead to a blockage. Even with this, if you notice something that seems off with your system, such as it’s not functioning as efficiently or making unusual noises, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem before calling a professional for help. 

Find Your Perfect HVAC System Today

Choosing the right HVAC system for your home in South Florida means considering the size of your home. how efficient it is and how well it handles humidity – plus, ensuring it fits in your budget. South Florida’s unique climate can place additional stress on residential HVAC systems, but with the right tools and knowledge, you’re sure to find the one that meets all of your heating and cooling needs and expectations. 

At All Year Cooling, we’re here to be your partner in creating the perfect environment in your home. From AC installation to HVAC maintenance, we’re here to help. Reach out to our friendly staff today to learn more.