Florida Landlords: A/C: Is a wall unit with heat sufficient?

Question

Is it legal to only have a through-the-wall a/c unit WITH HEAT that is designed for 550 sf?

I'm doing minor rehab to a 988 sf house that does not have central air/heat (location: east of Orlando, Merritt Island).  It just has 1 wall unit (which needs to be replaced).  I got quotes from 4-6k to install central air.  Of course, I'd rather not spend that kind of money.

The new unit costs $550.

I was going to put a small window unit in each bedroom (w/o heat).  Good idea or waste of money?

James Barnhart · Answer

Window units are like the 1960's.  They are noisy and are called window shakers for a reason.

if air conditioning and heating is done right, you don't notice it there.  You just feel comfortable.  If I were a tenant, I would not rent a place that doesn't have central hvac.

Yes, it costs to have a central system put in, but then you will have a nice rental that will attract good tenants.  Otherwise you will have lesser quality tenants.  (in my humble opinion)

Jonathan Cronkite · Answer

Thanks.  I will!

Peter S. · Answer

I'd keep shopping around for a central A/C unit to put in. For 988 sf, you could probably use a 1.5 or 2 ton system in central florida. I just did 6 AC units in my Palm Bay building. They ran about $2300 each.

If you use window units, you would likely need one in each bedroom and one in the common living area. That's $1500-$1600 right there. And in Florida, those little units would get beat up pretty good in the summer.

PM me and I'll give you the guy I used. Dont use Palm Bay Air and Heat (scam artists).

Alex Olmo · Answer

Yes!  Have you looked into ductless AC with heat?   May be more attractive to potential tenants.  I have a similar situation in an apartment complex.

Im installing window AC with heat in 6 units and ductless AC in 2 larger units.

Email me, I have investor friendly AC contractor.

Florida Landlords: A/C: Is a wall unit with heat sufficient?

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