HVAC Service Notes & Diagnostics

By Jonnier Exposito – HVAC Technician, Florida

Air conditioning is a blessing in the Florida heat — but when the electric bill shows up, it can feel like a curse. As a full-time HVAC technician, I’ve helped hundreds of families stay cool without breaking the bank.

In this post, I’m sharing 7 proven ways to reduce your cooling costs, keep your system running efficiently, and protect your investment.

🧊 1. Change Your Air Filter Every 30 Days

A dirty filter chokes airflow, forces your system to work harder, and increases energy usage.

💡 Tip from Jonnier: Set a reminder in your phone every month. It takes 2 minutes and can lower your bill by 5–15%.

🌡️ 2. Raise Your Thermostat When You’re Not Home

Every degree you raise the temp saves energy. Set your thermostat to:

78°F while home 82–84°F when you’re out

Consider a smart thermostat like Ecobee or Nest for automatic savings.

🌬️ 3. Use Fans to Support Your AC

Ceiling fans and box fans help circulate cool air, allowing you to set the thermostat a little higher without losing comfort.

Remember: Fans cool people, not rooms — so turn them off when you leave.

🌅 4. Keep Sunlight Out During the Day

Close blinds, curtains, or install reflective film on sunny windows. Direct sunlight turns your living room into an oven.

Blackout curtains can reduce heat gain by up to 30%.

🧰 5. Schedule Professional AC Maintenance

A tune-up cleans coils, tests refrigerant levels, and catches problems early. A neglected system works harder and lasts half as long.

As a tech, I recommend twice-a-year maintenance — spring and fall.

🌿 6. Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit

Your condenser needs breathing room. Trim back bushes, remove debris, and keep it shaded if possible.

Jonnier’s rule: At least 2 feet of clearance all around the unit.

🧠 7. Know When to Upgrade

If your AC is over 12 years old and your bills are climbing, you might actually save money by installing a newer, energy-efficient system.

Newer systems can cut energy use by 30–50%.

🛠️ Bonus Tip: Don’t Ignore Small Problems

If your AC is:

Running longer than usual Making weird noises Not cooling like it used to…

Call a tech sooner rather than later. A $150 repair today might save you a $1,500 replacement tomorrow.

🙌 Final Thoughts from Jonnier Exposito

You don’t have to suffer in the heat, and you don’t have to empty your wallet to stay cool. A few smart habits and regular checkups go a long way toward lowering your bills and extending your system’s life.

If you found this helpful, feel free to share it — and check out my other posts for more HVAC tips and advice from someone who works in this heat every day.

Stay cool,

Jonnier Exposito