How to Hire an HVAC Contractor in Orlando, FL (2025 Guide)
In Orlando's climate, your HVAC system runs nearly year-round — making it the most critical mechanical system in your home. Hiring the wrong HVAC contractor can cost you thousands in premature equipment failure and inefficient systems. This guide walks you through how to hire a qualified HVAC contractor in Orlando.
Key Takeaways
- Florida requires HVAC contractors to hold a CAC (Certified Air Conditioning) license
- Insist on a proper Manual J load calculation — not a rule-of-thumb sizing
- Florida requires a minimum 15 SEER2 efficiency rating on new systems
- A mechanical permit is required — your contractor must pull it
- Get at least 3 quotes — HVAC pricing varies significantly between contractors
Florida HVAC Licensing Requirements
Florida requires HVAC contractors to hold a Certified Air Conditioning Contractor (CAC) or Certified Mechanical Contractor (CMC) license from the Florida DBPR. Verify at myfloridalicense.com.
Require proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance. HVAC work involves electrical connections, refrigerant handling (EPA 608 certification required), and gas lines — all carrying significant liability if done improperly.
Avoid contractors who subcontract all installation work to unlicensed technicians. Ask who specifically will be doing the installation and verify their credentials.
Getting the Right System Sized for Your Home
Proper system sizing is the most important technical decision in an HVAC replacement. An oversized system will short-cycle, fail to dehumidify properly — critical in Orlando's humid climate — and wear out faster.
A reputable HVAC contractor will perform a Manual J load calculation accounting for your home's square footage, ceiling height, insulation, windows, and local climate data. Be wary of any contractor who sizes your system based solely on square footage.
For Orlando homes, heat pumps are the ideal choice — they provide efficient cooling and heating using the same system. Florida's mild winters mean a heat pump handles all heating needs without a gas furnace.
What to Look for in Quotes and Contracts
A legitimate HVAC quote should specify: exact equipment (manufacturer, model number, tonnage, SEER2 rating), scope of installation, whether ductwork inspection is included, permit process, warranty terms, and payment schedule.
Florida requires a minimum 15 SEER2 efficiency rating on new systems. Any contractor proposing lower-efficiency equipment is not compliant with Florida law.
Compare quotes on total installed cost, not just equipment price. A contractor who charges more but includes ductwork sealing and a 2-year labor warranty may be a better value than the lowest bidder.
Hiring Checklist
- Verified Florida CAC or CMC license on DBPR website
- Confirmed active general liability and workers' comp insurance
- Contractor will perform a Manual J load calculation
- System meets Florida's 15 SEER2 minimum requirement
- Received at least 3 written, itemized quotes
- Equipment model numbers specified in the quote
- Ductwork inspection included or quoted separately
- Contractor will pull the mechanical permit
- Warranty terms clearly specified (equipment + labor)
- Payment schedule is reasonable
Red Flags to Avoid
- Sizes system by square footage only — no Manual J calculation
- Cannot verify CAC or CMC license on DBPR
- Proposes equipment below Florida's 15 SEER2 minimum
- No written quote
- Asks you to pull the permit yourself
- Requires full payment before installation
- No labor warranty offered
Frequently Asked Questions
What license should an HVAC contractor have in Florida?
Look for a Certified Air Conditioning Contractor (CAC) or Certified Mechanical Contractor (CMC) license from the Florida DBPR. Verify at myfloridalicense.com.
How long does HVAC replacement take in Orlando?
Most residential HVAC replacements are completed in a single day. Equipment availability can add 1–5 days.
Should I replace my air handler and condenser at the same time?
Yes — replacing both at the same time is strongly recommended. Mismatched systems lose efficiency and can void warranties.
What is a Manual J calculation?
An industry-standard load calculation that determines the correct HVAC system size for your specific home. Any reputable contractor should perform one.
Is a permit required for HVAC replacement in Orlando?
Yes — a mechanical permit is required in Orange County. Your contractor must pull it and schedule an inspection.
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