Essential Winter HVAC Checklist for Comfort and Energy Efficiency
                     Florida Winter HVAC 
Checklist: Top Tips for 
Optimal Performance
While Florida winters may be milder than other regions, proper HVAC 
maintenance remains crucial for comfort, efficiency, and system 
longevity. This guide provides essential tips to keep your heating and 
cooling system performing optimally during Florida's cooler months.
Why Winter HVAC Care Matters in Florida
Temperature System System 
Fluctuations Efficiency Longevity
Florida's winter temperatures can Neglected HVAC systems can Proper winter maintenance can 
swing from pleasant 70s during the consume up to 30% more energy, extend your HVAC system's life by 
day to chilly 40s at night, requiring significantly increasing utility bills 5-7 years, protecting your 
both heating and cooling during winter temperature swings. investment in Florida's challenging 
capabilities within the same 24-hour climate conditions.
period.
Mild Winter,
Big HVAC Needs
Florida's unique winter climate requires special attention to heating and 
cooling systems. Unlike northern states that might shut down AC units 
completely, Floridians need year-round HVAC performance, making 
proper maintenance essential rather than optional.
Tip 1: Change or Clean Air 
Filters Monthly
Why it matters: Florida's humid, pollen-rich environment clogs filters 
faster than in drier climates. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your 
system to work harder and consume more energy.
• Replace disposable filters every 30 days during winter
• Clean washable filters thoroughly every 90 days
• Consider upgrading to MERV 8-11 rated filters for better air quality
Tip 2: Clear Debris 
Around Outdoor Units
Clear 2-Foot Perimeter
Remove all vegetation, leaves, and debris within a 2-foot radius 
of your outdoor unit. Florida's winter plant debris can quickly 
accumulate and block critical airflow.
Gentle Cleaning
Use a garden hose (not pressure washer) to gently clean 
condenser coils of dust and debris. Do this when temperatures 
are above 60°F for best results.
Trim Surrounding Plants
Maintain at least 5 feet of clearance above the unit and prune 
any encroaching vegetation that could drop debris into the unit.
Tip 3: Schedule a Professional Winter 
Maintenance Check
Why Professional Maintenance 
MWinatetr tise thres ideal time for comprehensive HVAC servicing in 
Florida, when demand for technicians is lower and before summer 
stress tests your system.
A professional winter tune-up typically includes:
• Calibrating thermostat and checking electrical connections
• Lubricating moving parts to reduce friction and energy 
consumption
• Inspecting refrigerant levels and checking for leaks
• Testing heating elements and emergency heat strips
• Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
Tip 4: Upgrade to a Smart 
Thermostat
Intelligent Climate Control Remote Management
Smart thermostats learn your schedule and preferences, Control your home's climate from anywhere—perfect for 
automatically adjusting to Florida's unpredictable winter Florida's "cold snaps" when you need to activate heating 
weather patterns for optimal comfort. unexpectedly.
Tip 5: Inspect and Seal 
Ductwork & Improve Home 
Insulation
Ductwork Insulation 
Maintenance Improvements
In Florida's humid climate, duct Even in Florida, proper insulation 
leaks can introduce moisture and matters during winter:
reduce efficiency by up to 30%. 
Professional duct sealing • Add weatherstripping to doors 
prevents: and windows
• Seal gaps around pipes and 
• Mold growth in ductwork electrical outlets
during winter humidity shifts • Consider upgrading attic 
• Temperature inconsistencies insulation to R-30 minimum
between rooms
• Excessive dust circulation 
through the home
Contact Us
Total Comfort Cooling & 
Heating Inc
1207 Enterprise Dr
Port Charlotte, FL 33953
(941) 629-6222
[email protected]
TotalComfortCooling.com