1. AC units get more intensive use in the South.
In cooler northern states, climate control typically occurs during extreme temperature swings. Here in Southwest Florida, where we’re in hot, humid subtropical weather most of the year, we need to control our inside conditions. This tends to wear out parts more rapidly.
In general, air conditioning units are the hardest working appliances in your home or office! With regular maintenance, though, the typical lifespan of an AC unit in Southwest Florida is 10 to 15 years. On average, you can expect at least two mechanical failures within that time frame.
2. If you’re near the coast, your AC system is more susceptible to corrosion.
Some studies show that sea air can penetrate and affect buildings up to 50 miles away! The salty air can affect mechanical and electrical equipment. In general, anything made of metal is prone to premature wear-and-tear and corrosion.
3. Heating elements familiar up north are virtually unheard of here.
Did you have a furnace, boiler and radiator, electric baseboard heater, or perhaps a wood burning stove? You won’t find many of these in Florida.
Instead, most homes and businesses have electric heat strips within their air handler. These are similar to the heating element in an electric oven. When you turn the thermostat to heat, the coils in the heat strips warm up, the air handler’s blower comes on, and the heated air is pushed into the ductwork.
