Cooling Direct FAQ

Quick answers to common questions about buying AC equipment warehouse-direct in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, and surrounding Southwest Florida.

How does Cooling Direct sell AC systems for less than local contractors?

We sell warehouse-direct, skipping the dealer/distributor markup that local AC companies build into their quotes. The same Day & Night, Whirlpool, and Goodman systems your local guy would install ship from our SW Florida warehouse to your door, then a licensed Florida installer handles the swap. You pay the equipment cost plus install labor — not the marketing budget, sales commission, or dealer markup that drives a $13,000 quote.

Do I get the same warranty as a contractor install?

Yes. Manufacturer warranties (typically 10-year parts on compressor and coil) apply to any system installed by a licensed HVAC professional with a permit. The warranty does not require the install to come from the dealer who sold you the equipment.

How fast can I get a system delivered?

Most orders placed by noon ship same-day from our Southwest Florida warehouse. Common Cape Coral / Fort Myers / Naples deliveries arrive next morning. Compare to the typical 7-14 day wait at most local AC companies for the same equipment.

Do I need to find my own installer?

You can use our installer network or your own licensed Florida HVAC pro. We partner with licensed and insured installers across SW Florida who handle the install and pull the permit in your name. Install labor is quoted separately, typically $1,800-$2,500 for a 3-ton system.

What size AC do I need for my Florida home?

For most SW Florida block-construction homes: 2 ton fits 800-1,200 sq ft, 2.5 ton fits 1,200-1,500 sq ft, 3 ton fits 1,500-1,800 sq ft, 3.5 ton fits 1,800-2,200 sq ft, 4 ton fits 2,200-2,700 sq ft, and 5 ton fits 3,200+ sq ft. Adjust up half a ton for vaulted ceilings or heavy west-facing exposure. Call (239) 946-6132 if you want help sizing.

Should I get a heat pump or a regular central AC?

For SW Florida homes that run heat more than 15 nights per year, a heat pump pays back the higher upfront cost in 3-5 years through lower January electric bills. Heat pumps use about one-third the electricity of strip heaters for the same output. The equipment cost difference is only $300-$700 vs a standard central AC.

Do you cover Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, and Bonita Springs?

Yes. We deliver and install across Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, Punta Gorda, North Port, Sarasota, Bradenton, and the rest of Southwest Florida.

What refrigerant do new AC systems use in 2026?

Most new equipment shipping in 2026 uses R-454B refrigerant, which replaces R-410A. R-454B is more efficient and has a much lower global warming potential. Service technicians need new gauges and certification — make sure whoever installs your system is R-454B certified.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Lee County all require permits for AC replacement. Our installer pulls the permit in your name. Skipping the permit voids the manufacturer warranty and can complicate a future home sale.

Can I finance an AC system?

Yes. Shop Pay offers 4 interest-free payments on smaller orders. Affirm offers 0% APR financing up to 36 months on qualifying orders, with a soft credit check at checkout that does not affect your credit score.

What if my AC died and I need help today?

Call (239) 946-6132. We stock the most common Florida AC systems for same-day shipping and can usually have an installer at your house within 24-48 hours.

Ready to skip the contractor markup?

Shop AC Systems   Call (239) 946-6132