Summer is right around the corner, and this year promises to be another scorching Florida summer. Before the big heat sets in, take some time to prepare your home so you stay comfortable without sending your energy bills through the roof.
Preparing for the Florida Summer Season
1. Check Your Air Conditioner
Spring is the best time to give your air conditioner a checkup. Start by replacing your air filter and cleaning exhaust vents of any dirt or debris. If outdoor temperatures are warm enough, run your air conditioner to make sure it runs and cools your home. Spring is also the right time to schedule an annual cleaning and inspection of your A/C unit so you can be sure you’re ready for the Florida summer. That way, any problems can be resolved before the temperature starts rising.
2. Check for Air Leaks
No matter how well your air conditioner works, it will be no match for a Florida summer if your cooled air starts leaking out of your house. The most common places to find air leaks are around windows and doors. Caulk and weatherstripping are good solutions for small leaks, but you may want to contact an air leak sealing professional if you suspect certain areas have bigger problems.
3. Prevent Water Damage
Hurricanes and harsh tropical storms are on the rise, so now is the time to make sure your home is secure. Check your foundation for any cracks and leaks and repair any damaged areas. Don’t forget to clean out your gutters and check for any leaks, gaps, or sagging areas that need attention. Lastly, check your roof for damaged, missing, and broken shingles as well as for damaged flashing.
4. Change Window Coverings
No matter how hard your A/C works, with the midday sun streaming through your windows you may still feel the heat inside your home. Reflective film can be applied to windows to block some of the harshest rays without ruining your view. Or–for more thorough coverage–consider fabric curtains with blackout backing or roller shades that will block the sun completely. As an added bonus, most of these window coverings also provide a bit of insulation to keep cooled air inside your home where it belongs.
5. Boost Your Insulation
When it comes to staying comfortable during the Florida summer, insulation is one of the best ways to keep your indoor air temperature cool. Even if your home is already insulated, adding additional insulation in key spots will help you keep your home cooler and your wallet thicker. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Seal Air Leaks: We’re mentioning this a second time because it’s that important. The best air conditioner and the most advanced insulating processes won’t work if air is escaping through drafty windows and cracks throughout your home. You’ll want to make sure that your home is tightly sealed before adding any insulation.
- Fiberglass and Natural Batts: Fiberglass, natural fiber batts and rolls are the most common types of insulation because they are affordable and easy to install. Keep in mind that these types only work well in open spaces. You can put yourself and your home at risk by trying to install fiberglass insulation in hard to reach areas, like ceilings.
- Spray Foam: Spray foam insulation is more water-resistant than its fiberglass counterparts, making spray foam less prone to mold growth. This is an extremely important factor for the Florida homeowner to consider, as mold growth aggravates allergies and can cause structural damage to a home. Due to ease of application, this method of insulation can be used in everything from existing walls to crawl spaces. Make note that spray foam insulation should always be installed by a professional.
Spray foam insulation will not only keep your home cooler in the summer, but it will also keep your home warmer in winter. And it can even help reduce noise throughout the walls of your home! To learn more about the benefits of spray foam insulation, request your free spray foam insulation consultation today.
