Have you ever had guests come down in February to visit Disneyworld with you only to wake up to frigid weather? Have you experienced a fierce February rainstorm with gusty winds?  Remember the winters of 2022 and 2023 where we had multiple days that hit 88 degrees in the middle of February?  February’s fluctuating weather throws us curves sometimes. It also affects your home’s HVAC system! 

February Weather in Orlando by the Numbers 

We can have freezing weather in February, like the 27 degree temp we had on February 8 1895.  The opposite extreme is also possible, in recent years we’ve had February highs of 88 degrees, but the official record is 89 degrees on February 25, 1962.   

Happily, February is one of our drier months. It may be hot. It may be cold, but chances are, we won’t have extended rain events! 

Such extremes mean that your HVAC system may be swinging between heating and air conditioning in the period of a few days! 

The Weather is Changing in Orlando!  

Climate change is adding complexity to Orlando’s weather patterns. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows that Florida’s winters have warmed by roughly 2°F over the past century. However, this doesn’t eliminate sudden cold snaps. 

For February 2024, meteorologists predict slightly warmer-than-average temperatures, influenced by ongoing El Niño conditions. While fewer cold mornings are expected, increased humidity and occasional rainstorms are likely. 

What This Means for Your HVAC System 

Given Orlando’s variable winter weather, your HVAC system—especially in February—is critical for maintaining comfort. Here’s what to ask to make sure your HVAC system is up to the fluctuating February weather.  

Can your HVAC make the switch?  

To ensure your HVAC system can switch between heating and cooling, use your thermostat to select the "Auto" setting, wait until the current heating or cooling cycle finishes before changing modes, and adjust the temperature setting on the thermostat to switch between heating and cooling as needed; this minimizes strain on the system by not switching mid-cycle.    

If you’re considering an upgrade, a heat pump is an excellent choice for Orlando’s moderate heating needs and high cooling demands. A single unit controls both air conditioning and heating. 

Is your HVAC system managing indoor humidity?  

Warmer temperatures often bring higher humidity, even in winter. Excess humidity can lead to discomfort and potential mold growth. Happily, many new HVAC units include humidity sensors that allow them to regulate not only temperature but also the moisture level in the air.  Ideally, keep indoor humidity between 30-50%. If levels exceed this, consider integrating a dehumidifier into your HVAC system. ServiceOne can help. 

Can you help your HVAC system be more energy efficient?  

Frequent temperature changes can cause your system to cycle more often. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize usage. For example, set it to lower heating at night and cool only when needed during warmer days. 

Are drafts making your unit work harder?  

Drafts significantly impact HVAC systems by forcing them to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature, leading to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and potential wear and tear on system components due to the need to constantly compensate for air leaks around windows, doors, and other areas where drafts occur; essentially, your furnace or AC unit has to run longer to make up for the escaping conditioned air, causing strain on the system. 

In hot weather, drafts make hot spots. In cool weather, they create cool spots.  

Check for gaps or cracks around doors and windows and reseal or caulk them. Consider increasing the insulation in your attic, which can lower your heating and cooling bills by up to 20%.  

Have you joined ClubOne yet to get regularly scheduled maintenance? 

ServiceOne’s ClubOne membership allows for routinely scheduled maintenance which is proven to dramatically reduce future problems by keeping your HVAC unit operating at maximum efficiency. This will improve efficiency and reduce energy costs. It will also prepare for the hot weather guaranteed to be coming.  

Practical Tips for Orlando Homeowners to be ready for February 

Consider upgrading! 

If your system is more than 10 years old, you’ll want to consider an upgrade. If a unit has been well-maintained, it may last 14-15 years, but the harder it has to work, the shorter it’s lifespan.  

New models make units more energy-efficient than ever, saving energy and money.  Updated requirements on refrigerants are better for the environment, too.  

Final thoughts on February 

Orlando’s February weather is as diverse as its attractions, but unpredictable doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable. By preparing your HVAC system to handle the swings in temperature and humidity, you can enjoy a cozy, worry-free month. 

Have questions about optimizing your HVAC system for Orlando’s unique climate?  

Call ServiceOne Air Conditioning and Plumbing to ensure your home stays comfortable no matter what fluctuating February weather brings.