1. Upgrade your attic insulation to R-38. This is the single highest-impact change most Florida homeowners can make. Under-insulated attics are responsible for 25–40% of cooling loss in older homes.
2. Seal air leaks in the attic before adding insulation. Gaps around recessed lights, plumbing, and HVAC ducts let hot attic air bypass even good insulation. Air sealing first multiplies the benefit of new insulation significantly.
3. Set your thermostat to 78°F when home, 82°F when away. Florida utilities estimate each degree below 78°F adds 6–8% to your cooling cost. A programmable or smart thermostat automates this.
4. Use ceiling fans to allow a higher thermostat setting. Fans create a wind-chill effect, making 80°F feel like 76°F. Run them counterclockwise in summer.
5. Block solar gain with window coverings. South- and west-facing windows receive intense afternoon sun. Cellular blinds or solar shades can reduce solar heat gain by 40–70%.
6. Schedule AC maintenance before summer. A dirty coil or low refrigerant can cut efficiency by 20–30%. Annual HVAC tune-ups pay for themselves.
7. Check your attic ventilation. Proper soffit and ridge ventilation prevents heat from building up in your attic. A well-ventilated attic runs 20–30°F cooler than a poorly ventilated one, reducing the load on your ceiling insulation.