If you’re a Florida homeowner sweating through another brutal summer, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“What’s the cost to replace an AC unit?”
And if your home is around 2,000 square feet and you have no idea how much would cost to replace an AC unit, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about Cost to Replace An AC Unit in Florida— and how to get a free estimate in seconds using our AC Cost Calculator.
In Florida’s climate, cooling capacity is everything. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends:
1 ton of cooling capacity per 500 sq ft of living space.
So for example: for a 2,000 sq ft house, you’re likely looking at a 4-ton system. But it’s not just about square footage — factors like insulation, sun exposure, ceiling height, and number of windows also come into play.
Here’s a quick tonnage estimate guide:
| Home Size (Sq Ft) | Required Tonnage |
|---|
| 1,000 – 1,200 | 2 – 2.5 tons |
| 1,500 – 1,800 | 3 – 3.5 tons |
| 2,000 – 2,200 | 4 tons |
| 2,500 – 3,000 | 5 tons |
📌 Pro Tip: The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) has detailed manuals for calculating exact load requirements.
Want to skip the math? Use our AC Replacement Cost Calculator and get an instant estimate.
What Impacts the Cost to Replace An AC Unit in Florida?
No two homes (or homeowners) are alike. But a few key factors drive the total cost of replacing your air conditioner:
1. Home Size = Bigger Unit
AC systems are sized in “tons,” not weight — but cooling capacity.
💡 Rule of thumb: 1 ton for every 500 square feet.
So, a 2,000 sq ft home typically needs a 4-ton system.
2. System Type: Straight Cool vs. Heat Pump
Straight Cool (cooling only): Lower upfront cost.
Heat Pump (heating + cooling): More versatile, but pricier.
3. Brand + Efficiency Rating (SEER)
Higher SEER = more efficient = more expensive upfront, but saves on energy bills.
4. Ductwork & Installation Complexity
If you’re replacing old ductwork or need major rerouting, that’ll add to the bill.
Other Factors That Affect Your Cost
Beyond system size and type, several things can swing your final price higher or lower:
1. Ductwork Condition
According to Energy Star, 20–30% of conditioned air can be lost through leaky ducts. Repairs or replacement can add $2,000–$5,000
2. SEER2 Rating
Higher efficiency systems cost more upfront, but save you money long-term on energy bills.
3. Thermostat Upgrades
Smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee can add $200–$500 to your installation.
4. Installation Complexity
Tight attic? Old platform? Condensation line issues? These can all add labor costs.
Average Cost to Replace An AC Unit in Florida (By Home Size)
| Home Size | Tonnage | Straight Cool System | Heat Pump System |
|---|
| 1,000 – 1,200 sq ft | 2 – 2.5 Ton | $6,500 – $8,000 | $7,500 – $8,900 |
| 1,500 – 1,800 sq ft | 3 – 3.5 Ton | $8,000 – $9,500 | $9,000 – $10,900 |
| 2,000 – 2,500 sq ft | 4 – 5 Ton | $10,000 – $15,000 | $11,000 – $13,000 |
📌 Note: These are average price ranges for Florida homeowners. Exact pricing depends on your home, layout, preferences, and energy needs.
Cost To Replace An AC Unit in Florida: Here's A Price Breakdown
In 2025, the average cost to replace a central AC unit in Florida ranges between $6,500 and $15,000, depending on the system type and tonnage. Here’s how it breaks down:
🌀 Straight Cool System Pricing
1–2 Tons: $6,500 – $7,900
2.5–3.5 Tons: $8,000 – $9,500
4–5 Tons: $10,000 – $15,000
🔁 Heat Pump System Pricing
1–2 Tons: $7,500 – $8,900
2.5–3.5 Tons: $9,000 – $10,900
4–5 Tons: $11,000 – $13,000
These prices typically include:
- Equipment (indoor & outdoor units)
- Thermostat
- Labor
- Disposal of old unit
- Warranty
When Is It Time to Replace (Not Repair)Your AC?
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s likely time:
- System is 12–15+ years old
- Energy bills are suddenly spiking
- Blowing warm air or uneven cooling
- Constant repairs (especially expensive ones)
- It runs nonstop and never gets cold
- R-22 refrigerant system (banned & outdated)
- Leaks or strange smells
Cost Comparisons: Central AC vs. Mini Split
❄️ Central AC System
Best for: Whole-home cooling
Cost: $7,000–$15,000 installed
Pros: Seamless design, quieter
- Cons: Ductwork required
Ductless Mini Split
Best for: Add-ons, garages, single rooms
Cost: $3,000–$8,000 per zone
Pros: No ducts, energy efficient
- Cons: More expensive for full-home setups
Don’t Guess — Get Your Custom Estimate in Seconds
Instead of guessing how much your install will cost, get a personalized, data-backed estimate with our AC Replacement Cost Calculator. It’s fast, free, and doesn’t require a call.
Just answer a few quick questions:
- Your home’s square footage
- Property type
- System type
- Location
- Name + phone/email
🚀 You’ll get your estimate instantly on-screen + sent to your inbox.
Whether you need to cool a cozy 1,000 sq ft apartment or a spacious 2,500 sq ft home, knowing your AC replacement cost upfront helps you plan better, save smarter, and avoid surprises.
At Climacore, we’re here to keep Florida cool — with fair prices, fast installs, and financing that actually works for real people.
