Staying cool in the Sunshine State relies heavily on choosing the right HVAC system. Florida is known for its hot, humid summers and warm weather year-round. The unique climate, particularly in the southern region, requires a reliable and efficient AC system to handle your home’s extreme cooling demands.
With multiple cooling options for your Florida home, let’s explore five different HVAC systems to determine which is best for your needs.
Central Air Conditioning: Florida’s Most Popular Cooling Choice
Central air has long been Florida’s cooling champion. It uses a duct system to circulate cool, dehumidified air throughout the home. It features two main components: an air handler (evaporator coil) and a condensing unit (condensing coil), where refrigerant cools the air and removes heat and humidity.
Most systems are split, but packaged units are also available. Here’s a breakdown of the types and their benefits:
Split System Central Air
Split systems, often called “central air conditioning,” are the go-to HVAC choice for most Florida homes. They feature an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser, using ducts to draw in, cool, and distribute air throughout the house. While primarily for cooling, they can be equipped with heating capabilities.
Benefits of Split AC Systems
- Efficient cooling: Can efficiently cool spaces and manage high heat and humidity even in larger homes.
- Consistent cooling: Maintains a consistent temperature throughout the living space, keeping the entire house comfortable.
- Energy efficient: Split systems with a SEER rating of 15–20 balance efficiency and affordability. Routine maintenance ensures long-term performance.
- Costs: It tends to cost less upfront and has a straightforward installation process, provided ducts and refrigerant lines are already in place.
Heat-Pump AC Systems
Heat pumps are a versatile and energy-efficient option. They handle both cooling and heating, eliminating the need for a separate heat system. These are considered central air systems and use indoor and outdoor units, but they can switch to heating when needed.
Benefits of Air-Source Heat-Pump ACs
- Lower operating costs: May have a higher upfront cost, but their energy efficiency reduces long-term operating costs.
- High efficiency: More energy efficient than split systems and are ideal for the mild Florida.
- Dual functionality: One system provides cooling and dehumidifying in summer and heat in the cooler months.
- Eco-friendly: Heat transfer rather than generating it as other heat sources result in a smaller carbon footprint.
Packaged AC Systems
Packaged systems provide “central air,” but they are an ‘all-in-one” single unit that houses heating and cooling equipment. These units are installed outside or on the roof and use the air ducts to circulate cool air. A thermostat, like with split systems, controls them.
Benefits of Packaged Units
- Space-saving design: Single cabinet design offers whole-house cooling, making it ideal for small homes and mobile or manufactured homes with limited indoor space.
- Energy-efficient: Packaged units are an all-in-one HVAC solution that is more efficient than split systems, uses less energy, and lowers electric bills.
- Easy installation: Because a single cabinet is used, installation is generally more straightforward and more affordable than a split system.
Individual HVAC Units: Customized Cooling Solutions
Unlike central air, individual AC units can cool specific spaces rather than a whole home. While these may be found in cooler climates that only use AC for a season, Florida homes can also utilize them. They are ideal for smaller homes, room additions, detached buildings, or supplementing central air.
Ductless Mini Splits
Mini-split systems are perfect for homes without ductwork or for cooling specific rooms. These wall- or ceiling-mounted units connect to an outdoor unit and can cool one room or up to five, all controlled remotely via a remote or smartphone app.
Benefits of Mini Split Air Conditioners
- Zoned Cooling: Separate units allow AC use only in occupied rooms or setting varied temperatures in different rooms, saving energy.
- Easy Installation: It is easier to install and much less invasive than central air, especially in older homes without space for ductwork.
- Energy Savings: Without ducts, leaks or heat transfer are less risky, making these systems energy-efficient. They use less energy and can cool specific rooms, maximizing savings.
- Flexible Cooling Solutions: These are ideal for room additions, converted garages, workshops, or older homes without ductwork or for providing supplemental cooling without upgrading central air.
Window Air Conditioners
These self-contained air conditioners, often called “window shakers,” are installed in windows to cool a single room and vent outdoors. They are common in cooler climates where whole-home cooling isn’t necessary. They are often found in older buildings without central air or used as temporary or supplemental home cooling.
Benefits of Window ACs
- Low upfront costs: Cheap, budget-friendly option with DIY installation.
- Efficient cooling for small spaces: If installed and sealed correctly, a room air conditioner can save energy if only one space requires cooling.
- Space saving: They don’t take up floor space like a portable air conditioner, making them ideal for a small studio, apartment or one room.
Choosing the Best AC System for Your Florida Home
Choosing the right HVAC system depends on your budget, space, and whether your home has ductwork. Most Florida homes use central air because it efficiently cools large spaces, handles humidity, and utilizes existing ducts. A heat pump system may be ideal for greater efficiency and heating capabilities.
A ductless mini split is a versatile option for those who want more control over temperature settings and lower cooling costs. It is perfect for enclosed garages or room additions without upgrading their current central air system.
Need help determining which system is right for you? Contact a professional HVAC company like First Degree Air Conditioning for expert guidance tailored to your budget and cooling needs.
