What New Residents to FL Need to Know about Air Conditioners

Welcome to the Sunshine State. Florida is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, welcoming more than 1,000 new residents every day. One of Florida’s biggest attractions is its warm, sunny climate. With over 230 days of sunshine, air conditioning systems in Winter Haven and throughout Central Florida get quite a workout. These air conditioning tips will help new Florida residents reduce energy costs.

Weather Conditions in Winter Haven

The cold season in Winter Haven is short and relatively mild, with winter temperatures averaging 71°F during the day and 51°F in the evenings, from December to February. Your air conditioning system generally runs less often during the winter. However, it is not unusual for some Floridians to use the heater in the evenings and mornings and air conditioning in the afternoon during the winter.
Spring is a very comfortable season in Florida, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 87°F from March to May. It’s also an excellent time of year to give your air conditioning system its annual check-up in preparation for our hot and humid summers. May thru September is the hottest months of the year in Winter Haven, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 74°F to a high of 91°F in the afternoon. Your air conditioning system will likely be running day and night to maintain your desired temperature.

Energy Costs in Florida

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Florida ranks sixth in the nation for electricity consumption, mainly due to air conditioning systems operating year-round. The average monthly electric bill is $126, which is about 13% higher than the national average.

Energy Savings

Your air conditioning system can account for as much as 50% of monthly energy costs. If your air conditioning system is over ten years old, you can save up to 40% of cooling costs by replacing it with a new energy-efficient air conditioning model. New air conditioning systems use up to 50% less energy to generate the same level of cooling.

You can also reduce energy costs by installing a programmable thermostat and setting it at 78°F in the summer and 72°F in the winter. Raising the temperature an additional two degrees will help conserve energy while you’re away from home. Keep in mind that setting the thermostat at the lowest setting will not cool your home any faster and will increase energy costs 8% to 12%.

Tips for Buying a New Air Conditioning

When buying a new air conditioning, be sure to consult with a local, experienced, and fully-trained residential cooling and heating company like Florida Air Express. That’s because installing the right size air conditioning unit and placement is essential for maximizing efficiency and reducing energy costs.

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) helps homeowners choose the most energy-efficient air conditioning systems for their home cooling needs and budget. The SEER for most air conditioning units ranges from 14 to 21. Air conditioning models with a higher SEER are the most energy efficient.