How much does a new AC system cost installed in Orlando?
$6,500–$14,000 for a complete system, installed and permitted. Tonnage, SEER2 rating, and ductwork condition drive where you land in that range.
| System Tier | Typical SEER2 | Best For | Installed Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base single-stage | 14.3–15.2 | Budget replacement, rentals | $6,500–$8,500 |
| Mid two-stage | 15.2–17 | Most Orlando homes — best value | $8,500–$11,000 |
| Variable-speed | 17–20+ | Humidity control, lowest bills | $11,000–$14,000 |
Those numbers include equipment, labor, new pad or hurricane strapping as needed, the permit, and the load calculation. Full breakdown by tonnage and brand: new AC unit cost in Orlando. Trying to decide between fixing the old one and replacing? Run it through repair vs. replace first.
What is a Manual J load calculation — and why do most installers skip it?
Manual J is the engineering math that determines the right AC size for your home. Skipping it takes 30 seconds; doing it takes an hour — so many installers just match the old unit.
Manual J accounts for your square footage, insulation levels, window area and orientation, ceiling height, and duct layout. In Orlando's humidity, sizing matters more than almost anywhere: an oversized unit cools the air fast but shuts off before it dehumidifies, leaving your house at 74° and clammy. It also short-cycles, which is the hardest possible duty on a compressor.
of the AC systems we're called to replace were oversized for the home — usually because the previous installer copied the old unit's tonnage instead of running the load calculation.
More on getting the size right: how AC sizing actually works.
Do you pull permits, and what happens if an installer doesn't?
Yes — a mechanical permit and inspection on every install. Unpermitted AC work can void insurance claims, fail a 4-point inspection, and stall a home sale.
Florida requires a permit for AC replacement, period. We pull it, post it, and meet the inspector. When a contractor offers to "save you the permit fee," they're not saving you money — they're moving the liability onto your homeowner's policy and your future closing. Details on what the code requires: permits and Florida code for AC work.
Should my new system use R-454B refrigerant?
Yes. R-454B replaced R-410A in new equipment as of 2025. Every system we install is R-454B — buying leftover R-410A stock in 2026 means buying into a phased-out refrigerant.
R-410A isn't gone from existing systems, but new production is winding down and the per-pound price climbs every year. A "deal" on a new-old-stock R-410A condenser locks you into 12–15 years of increasingly expensive refrigerant. We explain the whole transition — including what it means for repair costs on your current unit — at the R-454B refrigerant transition, and how efficiency ratings changed at SEER2 explained.
How does $0-down financing work?
GreenSky financing, applied for in minutes from your kitchen table: $0 down, fixed monthly payments, and the full price disclosed before you sign.
Most AC replacements aren't planned — the system dies in July and you need an answer today. GreenSky approval typically takes minutes, and you'll see the total system price and your exact payment before committing. No prepayment penalties, and the quote is the quote: the number we give you at the kitchen table is the number on the invoice. More options at AC financing explained.
How long does an AC installation take?
Most changeouts are done in one day — out by dinner. Installs with duct modifications or air handler relocations can run two days.
A standard changeout (same locations, existing ducts in good shape) starts in the morning and cools the house by evening: recover the old refrigerant, remove the equipment, set the new condenser and air handler, braze and pressure-test the lineset, pull vacuum, charge, and commission against manufacturer specs. If your ducts leak or are undersized, we'll show it to you on camera and quote duct sealing or replacement separately — never as a surprise line item. We install across Orlando, Lake Nona, and 18 more service areas.
AC installation questions, answered
How much does a new AC system cost installed in Orlando?
$6,500–$14,000 complete, depending on tonnage, SEER2 tier, and ductwork condition — equipment, labor, permit, and Manual J included. See the full price table.
Do I need a permit to replace my AC in Orlando?
Yes — Florida law requires it. We pull the mechanical permit and schedule the inspection on every install. Unpermitted work can void insurance claims and complicate a home sale.
What is a Manual J load calculation and why does it matter?
It's the engineering calculation that sizes the system to your home — insulation, windows, orientation, ducts. Skipping it is how Orlando homes end up with oversized systems that short-cycle and leave humidity behind.
What is R-454B and should my new AC use it?
R-454B is the refrigerant that replaced R-410A in new systems starting 2025. Everything we install is R-454B. A leftover R-410A unit ties you to a refrigerant that gets pricier every year — details at the R-454B transition.
Do you offer financing on new AC systems?
Yes — $0 down through GreenSky, approved in minutes, fixed monthly payment, total price shown before you sign. See financing options.
Get a Real Quote — Sized by the Math
Manual J on every install, permit included, $0-down GreenSky financing. 5.0 stars — 91 reviews.
Call (407) 465-7777Smart Home Air & Heat — 10226 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL 32825 — [email protected]