Want to manage air-conditioning costs in Coral Springs or Parkland? Start with how the system is used and maintained. Your FPL bill also includes other electricity use, so no single AC change guarantees a lower total. These five checks can help you identify avoidable cooling energy use while keeping comfort and humidity in mind.
Table of Contents
3 Checks You Can Make This Week
- Review your thermostat schedule. Set a comfortable temperature when home and consider a higher cooling setpoint while away. A programmable or smart thermostat can automate the change. Avoid a setting that leaves the home uncomfortably hot or humid.
- Check the air filter. Inspect it regularly and replace it when dirty, using the size and type your system requires. A clogged filter restricts airflow and can increase energy use.
- Shade sunny windows. Closing suitable blinds or shades during strong sun can reduce solar heat entering the home. The effect depends on the window, orientation and covering.
These steps align with ENERGY STAR’s home heating and cooling guidance and the Department of Energy’s window guidance.
2 Checks That May Need a Technician
4. Have suspected duct leaks evaluated. If rooms have uneven airflow, ducts are visibly damaged, or conditioned air may be escaping into an attic, ask a technician to inspect the duct system before paying for sealing or replacement. Duct condition and location determine whether a repair is worthwhile. Learn about our ductwork service.
5. Schedule maintenance when the system needs it. A qualified technician can inspect coils, airflow, refrigerant performance and controls, then explain any finding before a repair. ENERGY STAR’s maintenance checklist describes these checks. Maintenance can support efficient operation, but the effect on a particular bill depends on the system’s starting condition.
Why Your Bill May Change
A higher FPL bill does not, by itself, diagnose an AC problem. Compare the bill’s electricity use and billing period with prior months, then consider weather, thermostat settings, occupancy and other appliances. If cooling performance or runtime has changed, document the symptoms and request an AC assessment. The Department of Energy describes how maintenance, air sealing, ductwork and thermostat settings can affect home energy use.
Common Questions
What thermostat setting saves the most?
There is no one setting that fits every household. In cooling mode, a higher setpoint generally reduces the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, but comfort and humidity matter. Try a modest change while you are away and review both comfort and electricity use.
Should I replace my AC just to lower the bill?
Not based on one bill. A technician should assess equipment condition, repair history, sizing, ductwork and current performance. Compare a written repair or replacement estimate against your actual electricity use before deciding.
Plan Your Next Step
For a system-specific review, see our preventive maintenance plans, ductwork service and AC installation guidance. Call 954-309-4575 during business hours, Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., or request an appointment. Share recent bills and any comfort or runtime changes so the visit can focus on evidence from your home.