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★★★★★ 4.8 · 1,300+ reviews
Lic. CAC1819196 · CFC1431159
✓ FREE Estimates   |   ✓ FREE Diagnosis
No diagnostic fee. No trip charge. You only pay if you approve the repair. Call (813) 343-2212

Is It Time to Replace Your AC in University?

Expert AC Replacement Services in  University

The University area surrounding USF is a unique market where student rental properties, faculty-owned homes, and established family neighborhoods all share the same zip codes. Rental property owners face AC replacement decisions driven by tenant retention and energy efficiency rather than personal comfort preferences.

Home Therapist Vector Elements Mesa De Trabajo
Hanging Banner Ten
Years of Experience

Licensed HVAC technicians delivering expert AC replacement in University and the Tampa Bay area for over a decade.

Licensed (CAC1819196), Bonded & Insured.
Hanging Banner Award
Free Estimates

Whether it’s a small leak or a major AC repair, our team provides clear, upfront pricing to University homeowners.

Hanging Banner Reliable
Same Day Services

AC problems can’t wait , that’s why we guarantee fast response and same-day service for University residents.

Why Do University Homeowners Replace Their AC With Us?

Trusted Team Since 2017

Since 2017, Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing has been keeping University homes comfortable year-round. Whether you live near University of South Florida, MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry), University Mall, USF Botanical Gardens, or out by Yuengling Center, our licensed technicians (license CAC1819196) provide same-day ac replacement with upfront pricing with FREE diagnosis. We have completed over 1,100 five-star jobs across the Tampa Bay area and our trucks are stocked with parts for Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, and every major brand. University weather pushes home systems hard, and when yours stops working, we get there fast and fix it right the first time.

★★★★ 4.8 (1,352 verified reviews)
Verified4.8★ · 1,352 reviews
🛡 FL Licensed: CAC1819196 · CFC1431159💼 $1M General Liability + Workers’ Comp🏠 Family-owned since 2017⚡ Same-day service
★★★★★Heating

My experience went on therapy cooling and heating was excellent they came in the correct my problem and it was so fast and easy I received sister and heating

me me · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

They are very responsive whenever we need their services. We can always count on them to be quick, professional, and affordable. We won't use any other company, and highly recommend A/C Therapist…

Sandra Ramos · · Google
★★★★★Plumbing

Fast within hr of call. And fast service on fix also explained all he was going to do and did. Showed me the outside water meter was,shut off and how it works…

L.D. DeLaRosa · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

This ac repair company was very helpful.He was very honest and knowledgeable.They came after another company flushed my system and it stopped working completely.They are fast and very honest and informative.I give…

Nutasha Funches · · Google
★★★★★

They made the entire process quick and easy from start to finish. Someone was able to come out the same day, and their communication was excellent throughout the whole process. I never…

Ana Rodriguez · · Google
★★★★★Plumbing

I had a great experience with Alejandro from Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing. He repaired two toilets and installed the water line to my new refrigerator after the delivery team refused…

Thomas Jones · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

Amazing service from start to finish. My AC system completely stopped working, and they were able to come out the same day, which was a huge relief. The technician was professional, knowledgeable,…

Manny Velasquez · · Google
★★★★★Water heater

As an engineer/fabricator/assembler, I have high standards from my contractors. This guy Sam, he fulfilled all my requests and installation needs. He took pride of his work, and left me with a…

ALEXANDROS ORESTIS · · Google
Latest review: June 2026 · auto-refreshed daily

What Are the Signs Your AC Needs Replacing?

High-Efficiency Systems Available

The area’s housing stock dates primarily from the 1970s through the 1990s, built during the university’s expansion era, and many of these homes still have R-22 systems. Properties near MOSI and the University Mall corridor are often on their second or third system, and the previous replacements were frequently budget installations that prioritized speed over quality. Near the USF campus and along Fletcher Avenue, rental properties and owner-occupied homes from the 1970s and 1980s are replacing aging R-22 systems that can no longer be maintained economically. In the neighborhoods around University Mall and south toward Fowler Avenue, homes from the 1990s are entering their first replacement cycle as original equipment reaches the 25 to 30 year mark.

Air Conditioning Services
Plumber Holding Gauges Near Air Conditioning Unit

We specialize in providing top-of-the-line cooling solutions for your home or business. From Air Conditioning installation and maintenance to repair and replacement, we offer a comprehensive range of services to ensure your air conditioning system runs smoothly all year round.

Heating Services
External Air Conditioning Unit Outside Building Plantations

We specialize in providing reliable, energy-efficient heating solutions for Tampa Bay homes. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency breakdown or planning a full system upgrade, Home Therapist is here with expert installation, repair, and maintenance services.

  • Heating Repair
  • Heating Installation
  • Heating System Replacement
  • Furnace Repair
  • Furnace Installation
  • Furnace Maintenance
  • Heat Pump Services
  • Heat Pump Installation
  • Emergency Heating Repair
  • Smart Thermostat Setup
  • Gas Furnace Services
Ductwork and Air Quality Services
Ductwork In Insulated Attic With Ventilation Fan And Light

We help Tampa Bay homeowners improve indoor air quality, lower energy bills, and extend HVAC system life with professional ductwork and air treatment services. From duct sealing to air purification, we do it all.

Plumbing Services
Water Pump System With Plumbing Fittings And Valves

Explore our full range of plumbing services by category. From leak detection and repiping to fixture installations and water heater solutions , we’ve got Tampa Bay’s HVAC needs covered.

  • Pipe Repair & Replacement
  • Drain Cleaning Services
  • Plumbing Fixtures
  • Water Heaters
  • Water Quality
  • Emergency Plumbing Services
  • Other Plumbing Services

How Does Our Replacement Process Work?

By Your Side at Every Step
+40 (10)

Step 1

Call us or book online,we’ll handle the details hassle-free!
+40 (8)

Step 2

Your AC Replacement specialist arrives on time, ready for a job done right.

+40 (9)

Step 3

Relax and enjoy the comfort of your home!

How Much Can a New AC Save You?

Lower Bills, Better Comfort

University area AC replacement serves two distinct customer profiles: rental property investors who need reliable, cost-effective equipment and owner-occupants who want comfort and efficiency in their personal homes. We perform a Manual J load calculation on every replacement regardless of property type, because properly sized equipment benefits both tenants and homeowners through lower utility bills and better comfort. TECO serves the entire University area, and the efficiency gains from upgrading old R-22 systems to modern 16 SEER R-410A equipment are substantial.

Last updated: April 2026

AC Replacement Costs in University

Pricing updated April 2026. All AC replacement prices include equipment removal, new installation, labor, permits, and warranty. Free in-home estimates. Financing available.

ServicePrice
Value Tier (Goodman, standard efficiency)$6,500 – $8,500
Premium Tier (Goodman, high efficiency)$8,500 – $11,000
Elite Tier (Daikin, top efficiency)$11,000 – $14,000+
Thermostat Upgrade (add-on)$349 – $899
Ductwork Replacement (if needed, per drop)$599 – $799

University Area AC Replacement: USF-Adjacent Neighborhoods with 10-15 Minute Response

The University Square area and Skipper Rd corridor (ZIP 33612) sit just north of USF and east of I-275, making it one of the closest service zones to our Linebaugh Ave base -- technicians arrive in 10-15 minutes via Nebraska Ave. The 1960s-80s university-area homes and rental properties here have been through multiple owner and tenant cycles, often with deferred maintenance on HVAC systems that are now well past their service life. We perform FREE ACCA Manual J calculations and install Goodman GVXC20 systems (from $5,485) or Daikin Fit Elite units (from $8,985) for owner-occupied and landlord replacement needs. Our fast response is a genuine advantage for University area landlords managing tenant comfort.

Call (813) 343-2212 for Your FREE University Estimate

Licensed CAC1819196 (HVAC) | CFC1431159 (Plumbing) | 1,300+ Five-Star Reviews

University Area Replacement Timing

University area systems that have been through multiple tenant cycles without tune-ups are at elevated failure risk in peak summer months. The June-August period when temperatures peak is exactly when tenant complaints escalate and emergency replacement scheduling is tightest. Proactive replacement -- before a failure -- gives landlords the ability to schedule on their timeline rather than the tenant's emergency. Owner-occupants benefit from locking in R-454B compliance and current TECO rebates before summer peak.

Want a University area AC replacement quote? Call (813) 343-2212 for a FREE in-home estimate.

Why University Needs a Specialized Approach to AC Replacement

1960s-80s University-Area Construction

University Square and Skipper Rd neighborhoods were built primarily between 1960 and 1985 to support the growing USF campus. These concrete block and frame homes typically run 1,000-1,800 sq ft with central air added via interior soffits or attic ducts in the 1970s-90s. Ductwork from that era is frequently undersized, unsealed, or kinked from decades of access. We include a ductwork assessment in every FREE estimate and price duct repairs separately so you can make an informed decision.

1960s-85 University area ductwork often undersized or deteriorated: assessment included at estimate

Rental Property and Deferred Maintenance

A significant portion of University Square properties are rental homes and multi-unit buildings where HVAC maintenance has been deferred through multiple tenant cycles. Systems that have missed annual tune-ups accumulate refrigerant deficiencies, dirty coils, and worn components that accelerate failure. When a system in deferred-maintenance condition fails, replacement is often more economical than repair. We provide an honest assessment during the FREE estimate visit.

Deferred-maintenance rental properties: replacement vs repair assessment provided at every estimate

TECO Energy and Owner-Occupied Upgrade Opportunity

University area is served by TECO (Tampa Electric). For owner-occupied properties, the Daikin Fit Elite's $300-450 per ton TECO rebate and lower monthly energy bills provide a compelling long-term case against the higher upfront cost. For landlords replacing a failed system, the Goodman GVXC20's lower installed price and solid 10-year parts warranty delivers reliable tenant-ready cooling at the value price point.

TECO rebates favor Daikin Fit for owner-occupied; Goodman GVXC20 preferred for landlord replacements

What AC Replacement Customers Say

Real Google reviews from Tampa Bay homeowners. Source: Home Therapist verified Google Business Profile (1,300+ five-star reviews aggregate).

★★★★★

They worked on my AC and were very helpful and friendly. Definitely recommend them!!

★★★★★

AC therapist are the best in this area. They explain everything that they find and what they recommend

University AC Replacement Pricing

All projects include FREE in-home estimate, FREE diagnosis on existing equipment, and our 1-year parts & labor warranty.

Goodman GVXC20 Value+Premium

From $5,485

  • Goodman GVXC20 16-18 SEER2
  • 10-year parts warranty
  • 2-year labor warranty
  • Manual J load calc included
  • Hillsborough County permit included
  • R-454B standard
  • FREE estimate

Daikin Fit Elite

Up to $12,985

  • Daikin Fit 19+ SEER2 variable-speed
  • 10-year parts + 12-year compressor
  • Lower monthly TECO bills for owner-occupants
  • WiFi smart controls
  • Under 55 dB
  • TECO rebate paperwork
  • FREE estimate

Financing available with $0 down for qualifying applicants. The $279 minimum labor figure applies only to APPROVED repair work on existing equipment, never to a diagnostic visit. Estimates and diagnostics are FREE on every AC replacement consultation across the University area.

Ready for a FREE University Area AC Replacement Estimate?

No diagnostic fee. Manual J included. R-454B standard. 10-15 min response from our Linebaugh base.

Call (813) 343-2212  Schedule Online

Licensed CAC1819196 (HVAC) | CFC1431159 (Plumbing) | Serving University area since 2017

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How much does AC replacement cost in University?

University area replacement costs start at $6,500 for a Goodman Value system in a standard equipment swap. Most homes are 1,200 to 1,800 square feet and need 2.5 to 3.5 ton systems, with typical investments between $6,500 and $11,000. Rental property owners who maintain multiple units should ask about our multi-property scheduling that can reduce per-unit costs. R-22 to R-410A transitions add the cost of new refrigerant lines. Homes with original 1970s ductwork that needs sealing or replacement should plan for additional investment. The practical home sizes and accessible equipment locations in this area help keep replacement costs moderate.

Q2. How do I know when it is time to replace my AC in University?

A: The clearest signs are frequent breakdowns, rising TECO bills, uneven cooling, and a system older than 12 to 15 years. In University, where concrete block (older), frame townhomes (newer) homes from the 1960s to 2010s put heavy demand on AC systems, most units are 15-30 years old and nearing end of life. probably runs on R-22 refrigerant which is no longer manufactured and very expensive to recharge. If your repair costs have passed the $5,000 rule (age times repair cost), replacement saves money in the long run. Our technicians will inspect your current system and give you an honest recommendation.

Q3. What size AC system does my University home need?

A: Sizing is based on square footage, insulation, window count, ductwork condition, and layout. The rough guide is 1 ton per 500 square feet in Florida, but that changes depending on your home. In University, where concrete block (older), frame townhomes (newer) homes from the 1960s to 2010s often have older insulation and single-pane windows, an undersized unit runs nonstop and an oversized unit short-cycles and creates humidity problems. We perform a Manual J load calculation to get the right size for your University home.

Q4. How long does an AC replacement take?

A: Most AC replacements in University are completed in one day, typically 6 to 10 hours. concrete block (older), frame townhomes (newer) homes from the 1960s to 2010s usually have straightforward access to the air handler and condenser pad. If we need to modify ductwork, add a new return, or relocate equipment, it can take a second day. We schedule work to minimize disruption and always clean up before we leave.

Q5. What brands do you install for AC replacement in University?

A: We install Goodman as our Value and Premium tier and Daikin as our Elite tier. Both are well-suited for University’s heat, humidity, and inland heat and dust. Goodman delivers excellent reliability at a competitive price point, while Daikin provides top-tier efficiency that pays for itself through lower TECO bills. We help University homeowners choose the right match for their budget, home size, and cooling needs.

Q6. Will a new AC system lower my electric bill?

A: Yes, significantly. Upgrading from a 10 SEER unit to a 16 SEER2 system can reduce cooling costs by 30 to 40 percent. For a typical University home on TECO, that means $600 to $1,200 in annual savings. concrete block (older), frame townhomes (newer) homes from the 1960s to 2010s with older, inefficient systems see the biggest impact. With Florida AC running 8 to 10 months a year, the efficiency upgrade pays for itself within 5 to 7 years.

Q7. Do you offer financing for AC replacement in University?

A: Yes, we offer flexible financing options for University homeowners including 0 percent interest for qualified buyers, low monthly payments, and terms up to 72 months. We work with multiple lenders to find an option that fits your budget. No one in University should have to suffer through a Florida summer because of upfront costs. Call (813) 343-2212 to discuss your options.

Q8. What is the difference between AC replacement and AC installation?

A: AC replacement means removing your existing system and putting in a new one. Installation can refer to a brand-new system in new construction or an addition where no system existed. In University, most of our work is replacement since homes from the 1960s to 2010s already have ductwork and infrastructure in place. Replacement is typically faster and less expensive because we use the existing connections and pad.

Q9. Do I need a permit for AC replacement in University?

A: Yes, AC replacements in University require a Hillsborough County building permit and inspection. We handle all permitting paperwork as part of the job. Our HVAC license (CAC1819196) is current and in good standing with the state of Florida. Skipping the permit can void your manufacturer warranty and create issues when you sell your home.

Q10. How long should a new AC system last in University?

A: A properly installed and maintained AC system in Florida lasts 12 to 18 years. University’s heat, humidity, and inland heat and dust are hard on equipment, so regular maintenance is key. We offer maintenance plans with two tune-ups per year, priority scheduling, and member discounts. University homeowners in University Square, Terrace Park, Bruce B. Downs corridor and across Hillsborough County trust us to keep their new systems running as long as possible.

Q11. Do you serve all of the University area?

A: Yes. We cover ZIP 33612 including University Square, Skipper Rd, and Temple Terrace-adjacent neighborhoods near USF. Technicians arrive in 10-15 minutes via Nebraska Ave — one of our fastest response zones.

Q12. Goodman or Daikin Fit for University area properties?

A: For landlords replacing a failed unit for tenant occupancy, the Goodman GVXC20 is the go-to value. For owner-occupants planning to stay in the home 5+ years, the Daikin Fit Elite’s TECO rebate and lower monthly operating costs usually make up the price difference within 5-7 years.

Q13. What is R-454B refrigerant?

A: R-454B replaces R-410A in all 2026 new AC installs. All systems installed in the University area use R-454B. Performance is equivalent to R-410A.

Q14. Is the estimate really free?

A: Yes. The estimate and Manual J are FREE. The $279 minimum applies only to APPROVED repair work on existing equipment.

Q15. How long does installation take?

A: Most University area replacements complete in 6 to 10 hours. We aim to finish in a single day.

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★★★★ 4.8 (1,352 verified reviews)
Verified4.8★ · 1,352 reviews
🛡 FL Licensed: CAC1819196 · CFC1431159💼 $1M General Liability + Workers’ Comp🏠 Family-owned since 2017⚡ Same-day service
★★★★★Heating

My experience went on therapy cooling and heating was excellent they came in the correct my problem and it was so fast and easy I received sister and heating

me me · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

They are very responsive whenever we need their services. We can always count on them to be quick, professional, and affordable. We won't use any other company, and highly recommend A/C Therapist…

Sandra Ramos · · Google
★★★★★Plumbing

Fast within hr of call. And fast service on fix also explained all he was going to do and did. Showed me the outside water meter was,shut off and how it works…

L.D. DeLaRosa · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

This ac repair company was very helpful.He was very honest and knowledgeable.They came after another company flushed my system and it stopped working completely.They are fast and very honest and informative.I give…

Nutasha Funches · · Google
★★★★★

They made the entire process quick and easy from start to finish. Someone was able to come out the same day, and their communication was excellent throughout the whole process. I never…

Ana Rodriguez · · Google
★★★★★Plumbing

I had a great experience with Alejandro from Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing. He repaired two toilets and installed the water line to my new refrigerator after the delivery team refused…

Thomas Jones · · Google
★★★★★AC repair

Amazing service from start to finish. My AC system completely stopped working, and they were able to come out the same day, which was a huge relief. The technician was professional, knowledgeable,…

Manny Velasquez · · Google
★★★★★Water heater

As an engineer/fabricator/assembler, I have high standards from my contractors. This guy Sam, he fulfilled all my requests and installation needs. He took pride of his work, and left me with a…

ALEXANDROS ORESTIS · · Google
Latest review: June 2026 · auto-refreshed daily
Call (813) 343-2212 Read all 881 on Google
Reviewed by Richard MoralesCo-Owner & FL Class B Air Conditioning Contractor, Home Therapist

Richard co-owns Home Therapist Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing and holds the FL Class B Air Conditioning Contractor license (CAC1819196) since 2017. The company holds licenses CAC1819196 (FL Class B AC Contractor, Richard Morales) and CFC1431159 (FL Plumbing Contractor, Alex Morales), serving the Tampa Bay metro with a six-technician field team and 1,378+ verified five-star reviews.

Published: Last reviewed: