6 Common Mistakes You Must Avoid While Using an AC in Milton, FL

Living in Milton, FL, where summer highs regularly hit the 90s and humidity clings like a wet blanket, your air conditioning system isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. But here’s the catch: even the best AC can underperform or break down if you’re unknowingly misusing it.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for about 48% of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most families. Small mistakes in how you use your system can lead to skyrocketing energy bills, reduced indoor comfort, and even premature system failure.

At McCombs Electrical Heating & Air, we’ve seen it all. In this guide, we’re revealing the six most common mistakes homeowners in Milton, FL, make when using their AC—and how you can avoid them.

1. Setting the Thermostat Too Low (Thinking It Will Cool Faster)

It’s a blistering day. You walk in, drenched in sweat, and crank the thermostat down to 65°F, hoping to cool your home faster. Sound familiar? It’s a myth.

Why This Is a Mistake: Your AC cools at a constant rate—setting it lower than needed won’t make it work faster, just longer. This strains the system and wastes energy.

Did you know: Each degree you set your thermostat below 78°F can increase energy usage by 6–8%, according to Florida Power & Light.

What to Do Instead:

• Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home, and raise it when you’re away.
• Use a smart thermostat to manage temperature changes automatically and efficiently.

2. Ignoring Air Filter Maintenance

Your air filter is the unsung hero of your AC system. It traps dust, pollen, and debris, keeping your air clean and system efficient. But when it clogs, trouble begins.

What Happens When You Ignore It:

• Reduced airflow
• Higher energy consumption
• Increased wear on components
• Poor indoor air quality

Shocking Fact: According to the EPA, indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, especially with clogged filters.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

• Change your filter every 1–3 months, depending on usage and whether you have pets.
• Mark it on your calendar or set a reminder.

3. Cooling Empty Rooms or Unused Spaces

Running your AC full blast in rooms no one uses? You’re not alone.

Why It’s a Problem:

• You’re paying for cool air that no one benefits from.
• It puts an extra load on your system.
• Your AC works longer for less actual comfort.

What to Do Instead:

• Close vents in unoccupied rooms (unless you have a variable-speed system, in which case consult a pro).
• Consider a zoned cooling system or ductless mini-splits for greater control.

Pro Tip from McCombs: Installing smart vent systems can automatically direct airflow to rooms in use, boosting efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

4. Skipping Regular AC Maintenance

Just like your car, your AC needs regular monitoring. Yet many homeowners in Milton wait until their system breaks down to call for help.

What This Leads To:

• Poor cooling performance
• Higher electricity bills
• Shorter system lifespan
• Sudden breakdowns (usually during heatwaves)

Stat to Note: Regular maintenance can reduce the risk of costly AC breakdowns by up to 95%, according to the Indoor Air Quality Association.

Avoid It by Doing This:

• Schedule professional maintenance at least once a year—ideally before summer.
• Ask about McCombs Electrical Heating & Air’s AC Tune-Up Plan to catch problems early and keep your unit in top shape.

5. Poor Thermostat Placement

Where you place your thermostat matters more than you think. If it’s in a spot that doesn’t represent the average temperature of your home, your AC could run inefficiently.

Common Thermostat Placement Mistakes:

• Near windows or direct sunlight
• Close to vents or heat-producing appliances
• In hallways or behind closed doors

The Problem: Your thermostat might “think” your home is hotter or colder than it is, leading to overcooling or undercooling.

What to Do:

• Install thermostats in central areas with good airflow.
• For more precision, use smart thermostats with remote sensors that average temperatures across multiple rooms.

6. Keeping Doors and Windows Open While AC Is On

This seems obvious, but it happens all the time. Maybe you’re airing out a room, or someone forgot to shut the patio door.

Why It’s a Big Mistake in Milton:

• Hot, humid air rushes in.
• Your AC has to work harder to dehumidify and recool the air.
• Increases wear and tear significantly.

Bonus Insight: Humidity control is crucial in Florida. Every bit of extra moisture forces your AC to run longer, and Florida’s average summer humidity hovers around 75%.

How to Fix It:

• Educate your family about keeping doors/windows shut when the AC is on.
• Install door alarms or auto-closers on patio/sliding doors for added efficiency.

The Real Cost of These Mistakes

The Bottom Line: These common AC mistakes may seem small, but over time, they can cost you hundreds (or thousands) in energy bills, repairs, and system replacement.

McCombs Electrical Heating & Air to the Rescue

Whether it’s choosing the right system, fixing an airflow issue, or giving your AC the expert care it needs, McCombs Electrical Heating & Air is your go-to HVAC partner in Milton, FL.

Why Homeowners Trust Us:

• Licensed & insured HVAC technicians
• Local expertise in the Florida climate
• Honest repairs, zero upselling
• Comprehensive maintenance programs
• Solutions customized for your home’s layout and needs

FAQ About AC Usage

Q: How often should I have my AC serviced in Florida?
At least once a year, twice is better due to the extended usage in Florida’s climate.

Q: Is it okay to close AC vents in unused rooms?
In some systems, yes. But in others, it could cause pressure issues. Ask atechnician to evaluate your setup.

Q: How can I lower the humidity in my home?
Use a dehumidifier or upgrade to an AC system with advanced humidity control features.

Q: Can I do my own AC maintenance?
You can replace filters and clean visible areas, but professional tune-ups are critical for internal components and refrigerant levels. Schedule an appointment.

Final Thoughts: Smart Cooling Starts with Smart Habits

Your air conditioner works hard, especially in Milton’s heat and humidity. Give it the care and attention it deserves by avoiding these six common mistakes. Not only will you stay more comfortable, but you’ll save money and extend the life of your system.

Don’t wait for a breakdown to learn the hard way.

Call McCombs Electrical Heating & Air at (850) 994-5467 today for expert AC service, maintenance, and energy-saving solutions tailored to your home, or click to schedule.