Florida’s unique climate—marked by relentless heat, high humidity, and the occasional chilly night—demands more from your home’s HVAC system than most regions, especially here on the Space Coast.
Whether you’re considering a new air conditioner, replacing your existing AC system, or simply want to improve energy efficiency, understanding your options is key to comfort and savings.
The best HVAC system for your Florida home depends on a variety of factors, including your home’s layout, AC tonnage per square foot, and energy goals.
Understanding Florida’s Climate and Its Impact on HVAC Needs
Florida’s subtropical weather shapes every aspect of home comfort. Here’s how it could impact your choice of new HVAC system:
- Prolonged Heat: With summer highs often in the 90s, your new AC unit must deliver powerful, reliable cooling—sometimes year-round.
- High Humidity: Average humidity levels above 70% mean your system must manage moisture as well as temperature to prevent discomfort, mold, and poor indoor air quality.
- Occasional Cool Weather: While less common, winter temperatures can dip into the 50s, so a system with supplemental heating is essential.
Because cooling accounts for a significant portion of energy use in Florida homes, selecting a new air conditioning unit or replacing an old unit with a high SEER rating (15 or higher) can help reduce your electricity bills and keep your home comfortable year-round.
Types of HVAC Systems Commonly Installed in Florida
Florida homeowners have several HVAC options, each with its own strengths and considerations. Here’s a closer look at the types of AC units you’ll find across the Space Coast:
1. Central Air Conditioning Systems
Central air conditioning is one of the most popular choices for Florida homes because it provides whole-home cooling through a network of ducts.
- Advantages: Central AC systems are highly efficient when paired with modern units boasting SEER ratings of 16 or higher. They also include built-in dehumidification features that help combat Florida’s sticky summers.
- Drawbacks: These systems require ductwork, which may need regular cleaning to prevent mold buildup—a common issue in humid climates.
If your home already has ductwork in place or you’re looking for consistent cooling throughout every room, central AC might be a good fit.
2. Ductless Mini-Split Systems
For homes without existing ductwork or those needing zoned cooling (e.g., different temperatures in different rooms), ductless mini-split systems are an excellent choice.
- Advantages: These systems offer precise temperature control for individual rooms or zones and are relatively easy to install compared to central AC.
- Drawbacks: While they’re highly efficient, mini-splits tend to have higher upfront costs than other options like window units.
Ductless systems are ideal for older homes or additions where installing ductwork would be impractical or expensive.
3. Heat Pump Systems
Heat pumps are versatile systems that provide both cooling in the summer and heating during cooler months—perfect for Florida’s mild winters.
- Advantages: Heat pumps are energy-efficient year-round and eliminate the need for separate heating systems.
- Drawbacks: During rare cold snaps, heat pumps may require auxiliary heat strips to maintain warmth efficiently.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that works well in Florida’s climate, a heat pump system is worth considering.
4. Packaged HVAC Systems
Packaged systems combine heating and cooling components into one outdoor unit, making them space-saving solutions for smaller homes or mobile homes.
- Advantages: These systems are compact and cost-effective to install.
- Drawbacks: They offer less flexibility compared to split systems and may not be as efficient for larger homes.
Packaged systems are often used when space is limited or when simplicity is a priority.
5. Window Air Conditioning Units
Window units are commonly used as temporary solutions or for cooling specific rooms rather than entire homes.
- Advantages: They’re affordable upfront and easy to install without professional help.
- Drawbacks: Window units are less efficient than other options and aren’t suitable for whole-home cooling.
While window units can work well in small spaces or as supplemental cooling options, they’re not ideal for long-term use in larger homes.
Each of these systems has its place in Florida homes—it all depends on your specific needs and priorities. Consulting with a professional can help you determine which option is best suited for your situation.
Factors Influencing HVAC System Selection
Choosing the right HVAC system isn’t just about picking what looks good on paper—it needs to be tailored to your home’s unique characteristics:
- Home Size and Layout: Most Florida homes require about 1 ton of cooling per 500–700 square feet. An oversized unit can cool too quickly without dehumidifying, while an undersized system will struggle to keep up.
- SEER Ratings: The higher the AC SEER rating, the more energy-efficient your system will be. For Florida, aim for a SEER of 15 or higher to maximize savings and comfort.
- Humidity Control Features: Look for systems with variable-speed compressors or built-in dehumidifiers to maintain consistent temperatures and manage moisture effectively.
- Durability: If you live near the coast, such as in New Smyrna Beach, salt air can corrode outdoor units. Choose models with anti-corrosion coatings or rust-resistant parts for longer life.
By evaluating these factors carefully, you’ll be better equipped to choose an HVAC system that meets your needs while maximizing comfort and efficiency.
What Kind of HVAC System Do I Need Installed in My Florida Home?
Not every Florida home needs the same AC system. What works best depends on your home’s size, layout, and whether you have ductwork.
Here’s how Ellington helps Space Coast homeowners find the right fit:
- Professional Assessment: Our NATE-certified technicians check your home’s insulation, ductwork, and square footage.
- Personalized Recommendations: We’ll suggest the best AC system for Florida’s climate—whether that’s central air, a ductless mini-split, a heat pump system, or another type.
- Energy & Comfort: We focus on systems with high SEER ratings and strong humidity control, so you stay comfortable and save on energy bills.
- Easy Upgrades: We offer flexible financing and solid warranties to make choosing and installing your air conditioning unit replacement stress-free.
Ready to upgrade or replace your air conditioning unit? Or do you need AC system repairs? Contact us to schedule your consultation today.
