The Complete AC Maintenance Checklist for South Florida Homeowners

In South Florida, your air conditioning system works harder and longer than almost anywhere else in the country. With temperatures regularly hitting the 90s and humidity hovering around 70-80%, your AC is your lifeline. Regular maintenance isn't optional here — it's essential for keeping your system running, your bills low, and your family comfortable.

Monthly Maintenance Tasks

These quick tasks take just minutes but make a huge difference in your system's performance:

• Replace or clean your air filter — In South Florida, we recommend every 30 days. Dusty homes, pet owners, and allergy sufferers should check even more frequently.
• Check your thermostat settings — Make sure it's programmed correctly. Setting it to 78°F when you're home and higher when you're away saves energy without sacrificing comfort.
• Inspect the area around your outdoor unit — Remove any leaves, branches, or debris within 2 feet of the condenser. South Florida's lush vegetation grows fast.
• Check for unusual noises or odors — Grinding, squealing, or musty smells can indicate problems that are easier (and cheaper) to fix early.

Quarterly Maintenance Tasks

• Clean the outdoor condenser coils — Use a garden hose to gently spray dirt and debris off the fins. Do this when the unit is off.
• Check the condensate drain line — Pour a cup of white vinegar down the drain line to prevent algae and mold buildup. A clogged drain line can cause water damage and system shutdowns.
• Inspect visible ductwork — Look for any obvious disconnections, tears, or signs of mold in accessible duct sections (attic, garage).
• Test your system — Turn the AC on and verify it's cooling properly. Check that all vents are open and unobstructed.

Annual Professional Maintenance (Twice a Year Recommended)

While DIY maintenance is important, professional tune-ups catch problems you can't see. We recommend scheduling a professional maintenance visit twice a year — once before summer (March/April) and once in fall (October/November).

During a professional tune-up, our technicians perform a comprehensive 21-point inspection:

• Check and adjust refrigerant levels
• Clean evaporator and condenser coils thoroughly
• Inspect and tighten all electrical connections
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Test thermostat accuracy and calibration
• Inspect the condensate drain and pan
• Check ductwork for leaks
• Measure airflow across the coil
• Inspect the blower motor and belt
• Test safety controls and capacitors
• Verify system performance and efficiency

Why Maintenance Matters in South Florida

Here's what regular maintenance does for your bottom line:

• Prevents breakdowns — 85% of AC repairs could have been prevented with regular maintenance.
• Lowers energy bills — A well-maintained system runs 15-20% more efficiently than a neglected one.
• Extends system life — The average AC lasts 10-15 years. With proper maintenance, you can push that to 15-20 years.
• Maintains warranty — Most manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance to honor warranty claims.

SoFlo Cooling Maintenance Plans

Our maintenance plans start at an affordable monthly rate and include priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and two comprehensive tune-ups per year. Contact us to learn more about protecting your investment and keeping your home comfortable year-round.