What Types of Heaters Are the Most Common in Florida Homes?
Thanks to Florida’s warm climate, most people don’t think about the importance of heating services in the winter. While our area enjoys balmy breezes and ample sunshine, temperatures can still dip into chilly territory. Because of this, it’s essential to choose the right heater services for your home.
Why Florida Homes Don’t Use Traditional Heating Systems
There are a few main reasons why people don’t think about investing in heating services when they move to Florida. The major reason is the area’s mild winters. Freezing temperatures are a rarity. As a result, the area has a relatively short heating season.
Traditional heating systems, like furnace services, are also not an energy-efficient option for Florida. Furnaces are incredibly powerful heating devices, but Florida doesn’t need that level of intensive power. Because of this, energy-efficient heat pumps and ductless mini-splits tend to be more effective heating systems for Florida’s unique climate.
The Most Common Types of Heaters in Florida Homes
To help you determine the best heater replacement for your home, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common heating options in Florida.
1. Heat Pumps
With heat pump services, heat isn’t created. Instead, it is absorbed by refrigerants and transferred from one area to another. Because this cycle can reverse, heat pumps can cool your home in the summer and heat it in the winter.
For Florida homeowners, heat pumps are one of the most effective heating options available. They are incredibly efficient, so you can take advantage of exceptional cost savings. Additionally, you can enjoy having year-round comfort through a single heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit.
2. Electric Furnaces
Electric furnaces tend to be more common in homes and regions that don’t have gas lines installed. While furnaces have lower upfront costs than heat pumps, they have significantly higher operating costs. Although electric furnaces are known for being reliable, the higher operating costs are an impediment for many homeowners.
3. Gas Furnaces
Gas furnace services are less common in Florida. This type of furnace installation can only be used in areas that have existing gas lines. Although they offer a powerful source of heat and low operational costs, gas furnaces are simply not necessary for Florida’s mild winters.
4. Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pumps
Ductless mini-split systems are another excellent installation option for Florida’s mild climate. Because they don’t rely on ductwork, these units are easy to install in renovated rooms or home additions. They are also useful for older homes that don’t have existing ductwork.
Besides being popular for their high level of energy efficiency, these HVAC units are also a favorite because of their individualized comfort. Each ductless mini-split is installed in its own room or zone. When one person in your home changes the temperature, it only affects that zone.
5. Portable and Space Heaters
Space heaters are individual units that can be moved to different areas when a little extra heat is needed. For example, people sometimes use them on unusually chilly nights.
However, space heaters are not intended to be a whole-home solution. They are known for starting fires, which is why they aren’t a long-term solution to your heating needs.
Factors That Determine Which Heater a Florida Home Needs
As a homeowner, there are a few factors that determine the type of heating installation and the size of the heating system you require.
- Home Size and Layout: If you have a large home, a furnace may offer the heating performance you need. Similarly, ductless mini-splits may be a good choice if your home has a mother-in-law’s suite or an addition.
- Local Utility Availability: Your area has to offer natural gas in order for you to install a gas furnace.
- Budget and Efficiency Goals: Our team will work with you to find a heating system that matches your budget and energy-efficiency needs.
- Existing HVAC Equipment: Often, we’ll replace your HVAC unit with the same type of system you already have. We’ll also consider whether you have existing ductwork before we install a system that relies on ducts to transfer air.
Benefits of Choosing the Right Heater
Whether you’re struggling with uneven heating or are paying too much in utility bills, finding the right heater services offers a number of convenient benefits.
- Better comfort during Florida’s cold snaps
- Lower energy bills
- Improved indoor air quality
- Extended system lifespan
When To Upgrade or Replace Your Heater
To ensure your home is comfortable throughout the winter, you need a well-maintained heating system. If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time for a new heating installation.
- Inexpicably high energy bills
- Uneven heating performance
- Frequent repairs
- Aging unit
- Poor air quality
- Unusual sounds or smells
In Florida, the most popular heater replacement is a heat pump. These energy-efficient units provide heating and cooling options, so homeowners can stay comfortable throughout the year. Additionally, they work exceptionally well in mild climates. Because of how efficient they are, there are even federal and state rebates available for getting a heat pump installed.
Get Help From Melbourne One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
As a Florida homeowner, you can opt for a range of different heater services. While gas furnaces offer the highest level of performance, they are only available in areas that have gas lines. In addition, Florida homes don’t need the performance offered by gas and electric furnaces.
Instead, ductless mini-split systems and heat pump services tend to be the best option for Florida homes. Both of these systems are incredibly efficient and work well in mild climates. The biggest factor determining which of the two options you choose is whether you have existing ductwork or not. For homes that don’t have ductwork, ductless mini-splits are a better choice.
No matter what heating services you need, our team can help. For help finding your next heating system, give Melbourne One Hour Heating & Air a call today!
We’re on time, or you don’t pay a dime!