If you live in Lake Wales or anywhere in Central Florida, you’re probably used to mild winters. That’s why when temperatures suddenly dip well below normal, many homeowners are caught off guard—especially when it comes to their HVAC systems.
At Ridge Energy Savers, we’ve been getting calls from homeowners wondering why their systems are running longer, struggling to keep up, or making unfamiliar noises. Let’s talk about how abnormally cold weather affects HVAC systems in Florida—and what you can do to stay comfortable and energy-efficient when temperatures drop.
Why Cold Snaps Are Hard on Florida HVAC Systems
Most homes in Central Florida rely on heat pump systems, which are designed to provide both heating and cooling. Heat pumps work incredibly efficiently in mild winter temperatures, but when outdoor temperatures drop unusually low, they have to work much harder to extract heat from the outside air.
During colder-than-normal weather, your system may:
Run longer cycles to maintain your thermostat setting
Switch on auxiliary or emergency heat more often
Use more electricity than usual
Reveal issues that weren’t noticeable during warmer months
This doesn’t mean your system is failing—it means it’s operating outside the conditions it typically experiences in Florida.
The Role of Auxiliary and Emergency Heat
Many homeowners are surprised when they see “AUX” or “EM HEAT” on their thermostat for the first time. This is completely normal during cold snaps.
Auxiliary heat is a backup heating source that activates when your heat pump can’t keep up on its own. While it helps maintain comfort, it also consumes significantly more energy. That’s why homeowners often notice higher electric bills during extended cold weather.
If your auxiliary heat seems to be running constantly, it could be a sign that:
Your system needs maintenance
Your home has air leaks or poor insulation
Your heat pump is aging or undersized
A professional HVAC evaluation can help identify the cause.
Common Cold-Weather HVAC Issues in Central Florida
Abnormally cold weather can expose hidden problems in your system, including:
Frozen outdoor coils: Moisture combined with low temperatures can lead to ice buildup, reducing efficiency.
Thermostat confusion: Constant temperature adjustments can cause the system to switch modes inefficiently.
Dirty filters: Reduced airflow makes it harder for your system to heat your home effectively.
Electrical strain: Increased usage can stress components that haven’t been tested this way before.
These issues are often preventable with routine maintenance and proactive care.
How to Protect Your HVAC System During Cold Weather
There are several simple steps homeowners in Lake Wales can take to protect their HVAC system and reduce energy costs during colder weather:
Avoid cranking the thermostat. Raising the temperature more than a few degrees can trigger auxiliary heat unnecessarily.
Change your air filter. Clean filters improve airflow and efficiency.
Seal drafts. Cold air entering through doors and windows forces your system to work harder.
Keep outdoor units clear. Remove debris and ensure proper airflow around your heat pump.
Schedule professional maintenance. A system check can catch small issues before they become expensive problems.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters More in Cold Weather
When temperatures drop, energy efficiency becomes more important than ever. An inefficient system not only struggles to keep your home comfortable—it can drive up utility bills quickly.
Ridge Energy Savers specializes in helping homeowners maximize efficiency, whether that means:
Fine-tuning an existing system
Recommending energy-saving upgrades
Installing high-efficiency heat pumps designed for Florida homes
Small improvements can make a big difference during periods of heavy system use.
When to Call a Professional
If your home never seems to warm up, your system runs nonstop, or your electric bill spikes unexpectedly, it’s time to call a professional. Cold weather doesn’t last long in Central Florida, but HVAC problems can linger if they’re ignored.
A trained technician can ensure your system is operating safely, efficiently, and reliably—no matter what the weather decides to do.
Stay Comfortable All Winter with Ridge Energy Savers
Abnormally cold weather may be temporary, but your comfort shouldn’t be. At Ridge Energy Savers, we understand the unique demands Florida weather places on HVAC systems, especially during unexpected cold snaps.
Whether you need routine maintenance, energy-efficient solutions, or fast service to restore heat, our team is here to help Lake Wales homeowners stay warm, comfortable, and confident all winter long.
