**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.