Heat Pump vs AC in Orlando, FL: Which Is Better for Florida? (2025)

A heat pump works by moving heat rather than generating it — in summer it moves heat out of your home (cooling), in winter it moves heat in from outside air (heating). This process is 2–4x more energy efficient than electric resistance heating.

Orlando's winters are mild — average lows in January are around 50°F. Heat pumps work most efficiently above 35–40°F, which covers virtually all of Orlando's winter weather. The rare cold snap below 40°F is handled by the heat pump's backup electric resistance strips.

The result: a heat pump in Orlando provides efficient cooling all summer and efficient heating all winter, with no need for a separate gas furnace.

Heat pumps cost slightly more upfront than a standard AC-only system — typically $500–$1,500 more. But they eliminate the need for a separate gas furnace (saving $1,500–$3,000) and the ongoing cost of a gas utility connection.

Operating costs favor heat pumps in Florida. A heat pump heating a home costs roughly 1/3 the energy of electric resistance heating. Since Orlando winters are short and mild, the heating cost difference is modest — but it adds up over 12–15 years of system life.

With natural gas prices volatile and electricity rates in Florida relatively stable, heat pumps also provide better long-term cost predictability.

There are a few scenarios where a traditional split system with gas heat makes sense in Orlando:

If your home already has gas infrastructure and you prefer gas heat for the rare cold nights, replacing with a similar system avoids the cost of removing gas lines.

If you're replacing only the AC unit (not the full system) and have a relatively new gas furnace, replacing just the AC with a standard unit is more cost-effective than replacing the entire system with a heat pump.

For most new installations or full system replacements, a heat pump is the right choice for Orlando.

For Orlando's climate, look for a heat pump with a minimum 15 SEER2 rating (Florida's legal minimum). Higher efficiency units (18–21 SEER2) cost more upfront but save $300–$600/year on electricity.

Brands with strong track records in Florida's demanding climate include Trane, Carrier, Lennox, and Rheem. Avoid off-brand units — warranty support and parts availability matter when your system runs year-round.

Proper sizing is critical. An oversized heat pump will short-cycle, causing humidity problems — a serious issue in Orlando's humid climate. Require a Manual J load calculation from your HVAC contractor before installation.