Do I Need a Heating System in Orlando, Florida?

If you live in Central Florida, conversations about the weather usually focus on the heat and humidity – and for good reason. Summers here are hot and steamy, causing homeowners to run the AC around the clock.

So it may come as a slight surprise to hear talk of installing heating systems in Orlando and Orange County. That said, average low temperatures during the winter months dip into the low to mid-50s, making some form of heating necessary to stay comfortable.

Keep reading as we discuss the best types of heating systems for Orlando, Florida, and which ones you can typically skip.

Best Heating Systems for Orlando

#1: Air-source Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are ideal for Florida’s climate because they provide both heating and cooling, making them an all-in-one solution for climate control.

Traditional heat pumps operate efficiently in temperatures down to about 40°F. Since Orlando’s temperature rarely drops below this threshold, a heat pump can save you the cost of buying separate HVAC systems.

Heat pumps are an energy-saving and eco-friendly alternative to natural gas furnaces. Rather than burning fuel to produce heat, they pull heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors. Even on chilly days, there is still enough heat in the outside air for a heat pump to extract and use to keep your home warm.

For most Orlando homeowners, a reliable heat pump paired with a well-maintained duct system will provide optimal comfort and energy efficiency throughout the year.

#2: Ductless Mini-splits

As the name suggests, ductless mini-splits are a type of heat pump that do not require ductwork. Instead, they consist of one or more indoor air handling units connected to an outdoor condenser unit via a conduit that contains the power cables, refrigerant lines, and condensate drain.

Mini-splits are especially popular in areas not served by the main HVAC system – like sunrooms, garages, or home additions – because they deliver both heating and cooling directly to the room through a compact wall-mounted unit. This allows the spaces to remain comfortable when temperatures dip into the 40s and 50s between December and February without expensive upgrades.

While mini-splits are effective for targeted comfort, installing several to cover an entire home can be expensive. For whole-home heating, a traditional air-source heat pump is usually the better choice in Orlando. A central heat pump system offers consistent heating and cooling across all rooms and can take advantage of the mild Florida climate to run efficiently year-round.

Heating Systems to Avoid in Orlando, Fla.

Because winters in Central Florida are so short and mild, most homeowners don’t need a high-capacity heating system. Here’s what to skip:

• Gas Furnaces. They are common up North but tend to be overkill in Orlando. They produce a lot of heat quickly, but the equipment cost, fuel expense, and limited natural gas access in some neighborhoods make them impractical. You’ll also need a separate cooling system, which adds to the cost.
• Electric resistance heaters. These types of systems – which include baseboard units, space heaters, electric furnaces, radiant wall panels, and electric floor heating systems – create heat directly from electricity. While they can provide quick warmth for small areas, they’re not a cost-effective choice for homes in Orlando. 
• Geothermal heat pumps. A few eco-friendly homeowners might explore geothermal systems, which can heat and cool extremely efficiently by using the ground’s consistent temperature. But because installation requires drilling and trenching, the upfront cost can be tough to justify in a region that only needs occasional heating. They are typically better suited in northern regions that experience harsh winters.

Maintaining Your Heating System

Whether you choose a heat pump, mini-split, or another type of heating source for your Orlando home, don’t forget to have it maintained annually, ideally in the fall before the arrival of cold weather. During a maintenance visit, an HVAC dealer will clean and adjust necessary components, replace the air filter, inspect safety components, and identify any minor issues that should be addressed.

Professional maintenance ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Regular check-ups can also prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.