It’s no secret that many people call Florida home only during the cooler months. As spring arrives and temperatures rise, part-time residents start preparing to leave for the season. If you’re heading north for summer, ensuring your home—especially your HVAC system—is ready for months of vacancy is critical.
Florida’s extreme heat and humidity can quickly wreak havoc on an unattended home. If left unchecked, an air conditioner that’s shut off or poorly maintained can lead to serious issues like mold, water damage, system breakdowns, and skyrocketing energy costs. Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure your AC system runs smoothly and protects your home while you’re away.
Part-Time Floridian: How to Protect Your Winter Home
Seasonal residents—from retirees to equestrians here for polo season—know how important it is to prepare their property before heading north. Your air conditioning system is one of the most critical parts of that preparation. Your AC’s proper operation is crucial for maintaining indoor air circulation, controlling humidity, and preventing mold growth.
Follow these steps to keep your system in peak condition and avoid headaches when you return.
Step 1: Set the Thermostat for Optimal Efficiency
Never turn your AC off completely. Florida’s humidity can cause mold growth and interior damage within weeks if your home isn’t climate-controlled. Instead, set your thermostat to 78°F for optimal humidity control while balancing energy savings. Some homeowners prefer settings as high as 80–82°F, but only if the system runs consistently to manage moisture.
If you’re away for months, install a smart thermostat that lets you monitor and adjust settings remotely. This adds peace of mind, but remote control should be combined with in-person monitoring (see Step 8).
Step 2: Change or Clean Air Filters
Start with a clean air filter before leaving. A fresh filter ensures proper airflow and reduces the strain on your system. Dust, pet dander, and mold spores can build up, so a clean filter is crucial to maintain air quality and prevent airflow issues while you’re gone.
If you’ll be away for several months, consider using a high—quality, longer—lasting filter— one that can handle a longer replacement cycle, typically up to 90 days.
Step 3: Inspect & Clean the Drain Line
Condensate drain lines are notorious for clogging, especially in humid weather. Before leaving, ensure the drain line is clear and the pan is free of buildup. A clogged line can lead to major water damage while your home sits empty.
Use a wet/dry vac to clear the line, and add drain pan tablets to reduce mold and algae growth. Also, install a float switch if you don’t already have one—this device will automatically shut off the AC if the drain line overflows, preventing water damage while you’re away.
Step 4: Check for Leaks & System Damage
Take time to visually inspect your system. Look for corrosion, leaks, ice buildup, or worn components, including the evaporator coil and refrigerant lines. Strange noises like hissing may indicate a refrigerant leak.
If anything looks or sounds unusual, schedule a professional inspection before you leave—the last thing you want is to return to an AC that has failed in your absence.
Step 5: Don’t Forget to Protect Your Outdoor AC Unit
Before leaving, inspect and clear the area around your outdoor condenser unit. Remove branches, leaves, and debris that could block airflow. Trim back plants and shrubs to allow proper ventilation.
Also, gently rinse the condenser coil with water to remove dirt and dust. Never cover the unit completely—it needs ventilation—but you may use a mesh guard to protect it from debris without blocking airflow.
Step 6: HVAC Surge Protection & Power Considerations
Florida’s spring and summer storms bring frequent lightning and power surges. Installing surge protection is a smart investment because you won’t be there to reset or check the system.
Options include:
- Whole-house surge protectors installed at your main electrical panel to protect all appliances.
- Dedicated AC surge protectors installed directly on your unit for targeted protection.
Ask your HVAC technician to recommend the right protection when scheduling a maintenance visit (see Step 7).
Step 7: Schedule Preventative Maintenance Before Leaving
Preventative maintenance is crucial before a long absence. Your technician will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect wiring, and ensure the system runs smoothly. This reduces the risk of breakdowns and protects your home from moisture-related damage while you’re away.
During this visit, discuss adding smart thermostats, surge protection, and float switches for additional peace of mind. Don’t skip this important step—HVAC tune-ups are a small investment that can prevent much bigger problems.
Step 8: Arrange for Monitoring & Maintenance While Away
Remote monitoring isn’t enough. Have someone physically check on your home and HVAC system regularly. You can:
- Hire a home watch service that specializes in seasonal properties.
- Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to visit every few weeks.
Ensure they check for:
- Signs of leaks or water damage.
- Unusual noises or system shutdowns.
- Condition of air filters (consider leaving extras behind for easy replacement).
A home watch professional can also address other needs like pest control, security checks, and hurricane prep.
Protect Your Home and HVAC System Before You Leave Florida
Properly preparing your HVAC system before heading north for spring and summer is crucial to avoid costly repairs, water damage, and mold growth while your home sits empty. By following these essential steps, you’ll help ensure your AC runs efficiently in your absence and return to a comfortable, well-maintained home next season.
If you want expert assistance to ensure everything is in top shape, contact First Degree Air Conditioning to schedule a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up before you leave.
