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Tampa AC Repair & Air Conditioning Services

Trusted by 43+ Tampa Families — From Waterset to MiraBay, Symphony Isles to Panther Trace

Hot 2 Cold Air Conditioning serves Tampa and all of Hillsborough County with fast, honest HVAC service. We serve families and businesses throughout South Tampa, Temple Terrace, Westchase, Carrollwood, New Tampa, Seminole Heights, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Town N Country, and the broader Tampa metro area.

We understand what makes Tampa different — the proximity to the Alafia River that drives humidity challenges, the mix of 1990s ranch homes and modern two-story builds with different HVAC needs, and the HOA requirements in master-planned communities like Waterset and MiraBay. When your AC fails on a 95-degree afternoon, you need a company that responds fast from nearby (we’re at 1503 S US Hwy 301 STE 101 #81, about 20 minutes south), knows your specific home type, and treats you with respect — not a sales pitch.

Our technicians work for salary, not commission. That means honest recommendations based on what’s right for your home and budget — not what generates the biggest check for us.

Call Now: (813) 355-9698 | Service Call: $79 ($1 for Maintenance Club Members)

4.9 Stars Google Based on 1,026 Reviews
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1,000+ Reviews Birdeye Verified
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BBB A+ Accredited Better Business Bureau
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License CAC1816786 Florida State Licensed
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Nextdoor Recommended Neighborhood Favorite
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5% Off Community Discount Seniors, Military, Teachers & Civil Servants
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No-Commission Technicians Honest Recs, Not Sales Pressure

Why Tampa Homeowners Trust Hot 2 Cold

? Truly Local to Tampa — Not Just “Servicing” the Area

Our headquarters at 1503 S US Hwy 301 STE 101 #81 puts us right in the heart of greater Tampa. We’re not driving from Tampa or Sarasota — we’re your neighbors. Most Tampa emergency calls get 45-90 minute response times because we’re literally down the street. We also serve the surrounding communities with Apollo Beach AC repair, Ruskin AC repair, and Sun City Center AC repair services.

? We Know Every Tampa Neighborhood

Tampa isn’t one community — it’s dozens. Each has different HVAC needs:

  • Waterset (2010s-present) — Master-planned community with modern builder-grade systems now reaching the 10-15 year replacement window. Multiple HOA requirements we handle routinely.
  • MiraBay (2000s-2010s) — Waterfront and golf course community with original/second-generation systems. Salt air corrosion is a real concern here.
  • Symphony Isles (2015-present) — Newer construction with current-generation systems that still need proper maintenance to avoid premature failure in Florida’s demanding climate.
  • Lake Saint Charles, Panther Trace, Somerset (1990s-2010s) — Established neighborhoods with aging HVAC systems. Many homes still have R-22 refrigerant systems that are expensive to maintain.
  • Original Tampa (1960s-1990s) — Older ranch-style homes with original or second-generation ductwork that often needs sealing or replacement.

We’ve worked in all of them. We understand the construction eras and exactly what each Tampa neighborhood’s homes need.

? Honest Service, Not Sales Pressure

Our technicians work for a wage, NOT commission. That means when your Tampa AC needs repair, you get honest recommendations — not pressure to buy equipment you don’t need. If a $200 repair will keep your system running for years, we’ll tell you. Many of our competitors push full replacements on retirees and young families because that’s where the big commission checks come from. We don’t operate that way.

This no-commission approach is why we have 43 customer reviews from Tampa addresses alone — more than any other single neighborhood we serve. Honest work builds trust. Trust builds referrals. Referrals build communities.

? Same-Day Emergency Service

We offer:

  • Free virtual AC estimate: (813) 355-9698
  • 45-90 minute response time for most Tampa addresses
  • 24/7 emergency availability — nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Upfront pricing before we start any work
  • Service call included with repair ($79 diagnostic fee, $1 for club members)

Common AC Problems in Tampa Homes

Problem #1: High Humidity from Tampa Bay and the Hillsborough River

Tampa sits on Tampa Bay and along the Hillsborough River, creating persistently high humidity levels. Florida’s summer thunderstorm pattern brings daily moisture, and neighborhoods near the bay or river face compounded humidity challenges. If your home ever smells musty, has visible condensation on windows, or feels clammy even when the AC is running, your system isn’t adequately controlling moisture.

The most common culprit is an oversized or aging system. Many Tampa homes — especially the 1950s-1990s builds in South Tampa, Carrollwood, and Temple Terrace — have systems too large for the space. Oversized systems cool the air quickly but shut off before removing enough moisture — a problem called “short-cycling.” The result is cold, damp air that feeds mold growth and makes your home uncomfortable.

Signs Your Tampa AC Has Humidity Issues:

  • Home feels clammy or sticky even when AC is running
  • Musty smell in closets, bathrooms, or laundry room
  • Condensation on windows or mirrors
  • Mold or mildew spots appearing on walls or ceilings
  • System runs for short bursts (5-10 minutes) then shuts off
  • Electric bills are high but home doesn’t feel comfortable

We solve this with proper system sizing, variable-speed air handlers, and supplemental dehumidification when needed. For homes near Tampa Bay, the Hillsborough River, or in waterfront neighborhoods, humidity control is just as important as temperature control.

? Humidity issues in your Tampa home?

Call (813) 355-9698 for same-day AC service

Problem #2: Aging Systems Across Tampa’s Diverse Neighborhoods

Tampa’s diverse development history spans a century of construction, and AC systems of every vintage are in service across the metro. Systems 15, 20, or even 30+ years old are still running in many neighborhoods. In Florida’s demanding climate, most AC systems last 12-15 years before efficiency drops significantly and repair costs start adding up.

Neighborhoods Most Affected:

  • Waterset — Many 2010-2015 builder-grade systems now reaching 10-12 years (replacement window)
  • MiraBay — Original 2000s systems now 20+ years old, many still using expensive R-22 refrigerant
  • Lake Saint Charles, Panther Trace, Somerset — 1990s-2000s homes with original or second-generation systems showing their age
  • Symphony Isles — Newer but often undersized or improperly maintained from day one

Signs Your Tampa AC Needs Attention:

  • System age 12+ years with increasing repair frequency
  • FPL bills climbing even when usage stays the same
  • System runs constantly but never reaches your set temperature
  • Uneven cooling between rooms (upstairs hotter than downstairs, master bedroom always warm)
  • Unusual noises — buzzing, banging, screeching, or grinding
  • R-22 refrigerant system (no longer manufactured, extremely expensive to recharge)

We help Tampa homeowners evaluate whether repair or replacement makes better financial sense. Our no-commission technicians give you straight answers — and if repair is the smarter choice, that’s exactly what we’ll recommend. Use our free Repair vs. Replace Calculator to get a head start on your decision.

Problem #3: Historic Homes Without Modern Ductwork

Tampa’s historic neighborhoods — Seminole Heights, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Ybor City — are full of beautiful 1920s-1950s homes built long before modern central air conditioning existed. These homes often have minimal attic space, plaster walls, and no existing ductwork, making HVAC installation a creative challenge.

Our options for Tampa’s historic homes:

  • Mini-split ductless systems (no ductwork needed, preserves historic finishes)
  • High-velocity slim-duct systems designed for older construction
  • Strategic ductwork routing through closets and interior walls
  • Zoned solutions for multi-story historic properties
  • Permit coordination with City of Tampa for historic district properties

Common Historic Tampa Home HVAC Challenges:

  • Waterset — Condenser placement restrictions, sound dampening requirements, architectural review board approval
  • MiraBay — Waterfront property restrictions, salt-air rated equipment, aesthetic screening
  • Symphony Isles — Builder warranty coordination, new construction compliance

? We handle HOA paperwork for Waterset, MiraBay + all Tampa associations

Call (813) 355-9698 — we know the process

Problem #4: Two-Story Homes and Condos with Uneven Cooling

Westchase, New Tampa, Hunter’s Green, and many other Tampa suburbs are dominated by two-story homes. Downtown Tampa and South Tampa also have significant condo and multi-floor inventory. These present unique HVAC challenges:

Common Two-Story Cooling Issues:

  • Upstairs always hotter — Heat rises, and Florida’s intense sun beats down on your roof all day. If your upstairs is 5-10 degrees warmer than downstairs, you likely have duct sealing issues or an improperly sized/balanced system.
  • One thermostat controlling two floors — Single-zone systems struggle to keep both floors comfortable. The downstairs may be ice-cold while the upstairs is sweltering.
  • Long duct runs losing efficiency — In two-story homes, cooled air travels much farther from the air handler to upstairs bedrooms. Leaky ducts waste 20-30% of that cooled air into your attic.

Our Solutions for Multi-Floor Tampa Homes:

  • Dual-zone systems with separate thermostats for each floor
  • Duct sealing to prevent air loss in attic spaces
  • Proper insulation upgrades (many 1980s-1990s Tampa builders used minimal insulation)
  • Strategic return air placement to improve circulation
  • Right-sized equipment (many builders installed undersized systems to save money)

Problem #5: High TECO Bills in a Year-Round Cooling City

Tampa homeowners run their AC 10-11 months per year. TECO bills in summer routinely hit $200-350+ for homes with older or undersized systems. An outdated, inefficient AC system can add $100-175+ per month to your electric bill compared to a modern high-efficiency replacement.

We help Tampa homeowners understand the real numbers behind upgrading, including available rebates, financing options, and projected energy savings. Try our free Energy Savings Calculator to see what a higher-efficiency system could save you.

Even without replacing your system, we can improve efficiency through:

  • Duct sealing (typical homes lose 20-30% of cooled air through duct leaks)
  • Smart thermostat installation for more precise temperature control
  • Proper refrigerant charging (over or undercharged systems waste energy)
  • Coil cleaning to restore heat transfer efficiency
  • Air filter upgrades that improve airflow without restricting the system
🎬 Watch Before You Call
2 Quick DIY Checks That Could Save You a Service Call

Before scheduling a $79 service call, try these two simple checks. They take less than 5 minutes and could get your AC running again.

DIY Check #1
How to Check Your Drain Line & Float Switch

A tripped float switch is one of the most common reasons your AC shuts off. This quick check could save you a service call.

DIY Check #2
How to Check Your AC Breaker

A tripped breaker is the easiest fix in HVAC. Check this before calling — it takes 30 seconds and could save you $79.

Major AC Brands We Repair in Tampa

Whether you need a new central AC unit, a high-efficiency heat pump, or a modern ductless mini-split system, we’ve got you covered. Our team is experienced with a full range of air conditioning solutions to meet every comfort need and home layout across Tampa’s diverse housing stock.

We proudly service and install equipment from industry leaders, ensuring you always have reliable options for every budget and situation. From installation to repair and routine maintenance, our experts handle every major make and model. No matter what type of system you have—or want—we can help you find the perfect fit for your home’s cooling needs.

View all AC brands we repair

Complete HVAC Services for Tampa

Emergency AC Repair

AC breakdown in Tampa? We’re available 24/7 throughout the metro:

  • Compressor failures
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Frozen evaporator coils
  • Thermostat malfunctions
  • Blower motor failures
  • Electrical issues and circuit breaker trips
  • Condensate drain clogs (prevents water damage to floors and ceilings)
  • Capacitor and contactor failures (extremely common in Florida heat)

AC Installation & Replacement

Upgrading your Tampa home’s AC system? We provide:

  • Proper Load Calculation — Manual J calculations specific to your home’s square footage, layout, windows, insulation, and sun exposure
  • Right-Sized Equipment — No more oversized systems that short-cycle and leave your home humid
  • Energy-Efficient Options — High-SEER systems that lower your FPL bills, with options at every budget level
  • Quiet Operation — Important for close-proximity villa and condo living in Waterset and other communities
  • Marine-Grade Components — Florida’s humidity and proximity to coastal air require corrosion-resistant parts as standard practice
  • HOA-Compliant Installation — Proper placement, screening, and documentation for your association
  • 10-Year Warranties Available — Parts and labor coverage for long-term peace of mind

Top AC Brands We Install in Tampa:

  • Carrier — Premium reliability and efficiency
  • Trane — Industry-leading warranties and durability
  • Lennox — High-efficiency options for maximum energy savings
  • American Standard — Solid performance at mid-range pricing
  • Goodman — Budget-friendly with excellent warranties

Preventive Maintenance

Tampa’s long cooling season means your AC runs 10+ months per year. That’s significantly more wear than systems in northern states, and it makes regular maintenance essential — not optional. A well-maintained system lasts years longer, runs more efficiently, and almost never fails without warning.

Our Maintenance Club Benefits:

  • Spring and fall tune-ups (before summer heat and before winter heating season)
  • Priority emergency service — you’re first in line when it matters most
  • $1 service calls vs. $79 regular price
  • 15% discount on all repairs
  • Transferable membership (adds value if you sell your Tampa home)
  • Prevents 80% of emergency breakdowns

What We Check During Tampa Maintenance Visits:

  • Refrigerant levels and pressure
  • Electrical connections, capacitors, and contactors
  • Thermostat calibration and operation
  • Condensate drain cleaning (prevents water damage — critical in Florida)
  • Evaporator and condenser coil cleaning
  • Blower motor and fan blade inspection
  • Air filter replacement
  • Full system performance test with before/after readings

Ductwork Services

Older Tampa homes often have original ductwork that’s deteriorated, disconnected, or poorly insulated. Problems with ductwork account for many of the comfort complaints we hear:

  • Duct leakage testing and sealing
  • Duct insulation (especially in hot attics and crawl spaces)
  • Airflow balancing between rooms
  • Duct cleaning and sanitization
  • Replacement of corroded or collapsed flex duct sections

Indoor Air Quality

Clean indoor air matters for Tampa’s families, retirees, and allergy sufferers. We install and service:

  • Whole-home dehumidifiers (Aprilaire, Honeywell)
  • HEPA filtration systems
  • UV light air purifiers (eliminate mold spores, bacteria, and viruses)
  • Media filters (far more effective than standard 1″ filters)
  • Fresh air ventilation systems
  • Duct sanitization treatments

Why Tampa Residents Choose Hot 2 Cold Over National Chains

? No Commission = Honest Recommendations

National companies pay technicians commission on sales. This creates a conflict of interest every time a tech walks into your home — especially when they see an older system that could be sold as a replacement. Our techs earn a salary, so they recommend what’s RIGHT for you. If your 15-year-old system can be repaired for $300, we’ll tell you — even though selling you a $6,000-$8,000 replacement would be more profitable for us.

? We’re Actually Local (Not a Call Center)

When you call Hot 2 Cold, you talk to Rae or Judith in our Tampa office — not a call center in another state. We know Tampa, we know the neighborhoods, and we understand the community. Your satisfaction matters because this is our community too.

? Technicians Who Treat You Right

We hear from Tampa residents that other companies have sent technicians who talked down to them, rushed through explanations, or pressured them into quick decisions. That doesn’t happen with us. Our technicians take the time to explain the problem, answer every question, and make sure you’re comfortable with the plan before any work begins. Our team includes:

  • Licensed Florida HVAC contractors
  • NATE-certified technicians
  • Ongoing training on the latest equipment and techniques
  • Background-checked professionals you can trust in your home

? Marine-Grade Components for Florida Weather

Florida’s humidity, salt-influenced air, and harsh UV exposure destroy standard HVAC parts faster than northern climates. Tampa’s location in southern Hillsborough County — between Tampa Bay and the Gulf — means your outdoor condenser unit takes a beating. We use:

  • Corrosion-resistant coils (coated for Florida conditions)
  • UV-stabilized electrical components
  • Sealed contactors and relays
  • Premium capacitors rated for extreme heat

This isn’t optional in Tampa — it’s required for systems to last 15+ years instead of 8-10. Check your home’s specific risk level with our free Salt Air Corrosion Risk Calculator.

? Upfront Pricing (No Surprises)

Before we start any work, you get a written estimate. The price we quote is the price you pay — no hidden fees, no “discovered additional work,” no bait-and-switch. If the job costs more than estimated, that’s on us, not you.

🔧 Free HVAC Tools
Make Smarter AC Decisions

Built for Tampa Bay homeowners by licensed HVAC professionals. No login required. 100% free.

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7-Question Assessment
AC Repair or Replace Calculator

Should you fix your AC or invest in a new system? Get a repair/replace score and 5-year cost comparison. Try It Free →

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Up to 5 Systems
Energy Savings Calculator

Compare SEER ratings with tonnage weighting. See how much you could save on your electric bill. Calculate Savings →

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GPS-Powered
Salt Air Corrosion Risk Calculator

How close are you to saltwater? Find your exact distance and corrosion risk level with protection plan. Check Your Risk →

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Live Pricing
Duct Replacement Cost Estimator

Enter your vent count and duct type — get an instant installed price estimate based on current Tampa Bay pricing. Estimate Duct Cost →

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Live Pricing
AC Install Cost Estimator

Select your home size, SEER rating, and what you're replacing. See a real installed price estimate — not a national average. Estimate Install Cost →

Tampa AC Repair Pricing & Service Calls

Diagnostic Service Call: $79
Our technician diagnoses the problem and provides repair options with written pricing. If you approve the repair, the $79 service call is waived — you only pay for the repair itself.

Maintenance Club Members: $1 Service Calls
Join our maintenance club and pay just $1 for diagnostic visits (normally $79). Plus get priority emergency service and 15% off all repairs. This is especially valuable for Tampa homeowners with older systems that benefit from regular professional attention.

Get a Free Virtual AC Diagnosis
Call (813) 355-9698 and we’ll troubleshoot over the phone. Many simple issues — like tripped breakers, thermostat settings, or clogged filters — can be resolved with guidance, saving you a service call fee.

Financing Available
We offer flexible financing for AC replacement and major repairs. Approved credit gets you installed today and pay over time with manageable monthly payments. We work with multiple lenders to find the best rates for your situation.

Emergency AC Service in Tampa

AC emergencies are more than an inconvenience in Tampa — they can be a genuine health concern, particularly during summer months when outdoor temperatures exceed 95°F. We treat every Tampa emergency call with urgency.

24/7 Emergency Service:

  • Nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Same-day appointments (usually within 90 minutes)
  • Fully-stocked service vehicles (most repairs completed on the first visit)
  • Emergency pricing same as regular pricing (no after-hours surcharges)

When to Call for Emergency Service:

  • No cold air and outdoor temperature over 85°F
  • Health conditions requiring climate control (respiratory issues, heart conditions, etc.)
  • Water leaking from indoor unit (can damage floors, ceilings, and personal property)
  • Burning smell or unusual odors from AC system
  • Complete system failure with no response to thermostat changes

Emergency Line: (813) 355-9698

💎 Most Popular
Maintenance Club Membership

The smartest way to protect your AC investment and save money year-round.

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$1 Service Calls (normally $79) Save $78 every time you need us
  • Spring & fall tune-ups included
  • Priority emergency service — you're first in line
  • 15% off all repairs
  • Prevents 80% of emergency breakdowns
  • Transferable if you sell your home
Call to Join → (813) 358-4591
🏠 New System?
Flexible Financing Available

Get a new high-efficiency AC system installed today — pay over time with manageable monthly payments.

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Multiple lenders, best rates for your situation Quick approval, same-day installation available
  • Low monthly payments with approved credit
  • Multiple lender options for best rates
  • No-pressure quotes — we explain every option
  • Energy savings often offset monthly payment
  • 10-year warranty options available
Explore Financing Options →

Frequently Asked Questions — Tampa AC Service

Have a question? Click below for instant answers

Do you service all Tampa neighborhoods including South Tampa and Westchase?
Yes. We service all of Tampa including South Tampa, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Seminole Heights, Westchase, Carrollwood, New Tampa, Hunter's Green, Temple Terrace, Town N Country, and surrounding Hillsborough County communities. We also serve Brandon, Tampa, and the full Tampa Bay metro.
How quickly can you respond to Tampa AC emergencies?
Same-day response throughout the Tampa metro. For most Tampa addresses we aim for 60-90 minute arrival on emergency calls. We have technicians on call 24/7 with fully-stocked vehicles ready to roll — nights, weekends, and holidays.
I have a historic Tampa home (1920s-1940s). Can you install central AC?
It depends on the specific situation. If your system is under 12 years old and the repair is less than 30-40% of replacement cost, repair usually makes sense. If it's 15+ years old, uses R-22 refrigerant, or needs frequent repairs, replacement with a high-efficiency system typically pays for itself through energy savings within 5-7 years. Our technicians give you honest assessments — we don't push replacements for commission because we don't pay commission.
Should I repair or replace my Tampa AC?
It depends on age and repair cost relative to replacement. If your system is under 12 years old and the repair is less than 30-40% of replacement cost, repair usually makes sense. If it's 15+ years old, uses R-22 refrigerant, or has had multiple failures in the past 2 years, replacement typically pays for itself through energy savings within 5-7 years. Our no-commission technicians give you both numbers and let you decide.
What size AC system does my Tampa home need?
Most single-story Tampa homes (1,000-2,000 sq ft) need 2-3.5 ton systems, but proper sizing requires a Manual J load calculation. We factor in your home's layout, insulation quality, window size and placement, sun exposure, and ceiling height. Many Tampa homes have systems that were originally oversized — leading to humidity problems and short-cycling. Proper sizing solves both comfort and efficiency issues.
How much does AC repair cost in Tampa?
Our diagnostic service call is $79 (just $1 for Maintenance Club members, and waived if you approve the repair). Common repairs like capacitors, contactors, and drain line clears typically run $150–$600. Major repairs such as compressor or coil replacement range from $800–$2,500. Full system replacement runs $4,500–$12,000 depending on system size and efficiency level. We provide written pricing before starting any work — no surprises.
Why is my TECO bill so high even though my AC seems to work?
High bills with a working system usually point to: (1) Low SEER rating — older systems (SEER 10-13) cost significantly more to run than modern systems (SEER 16-22). (2) Duct leaks losing 20-30% of cooled air to the attic. (3) Dirty coils reducing heat transfer efficiency. (4) Refrigerant levels off (over or undercharged systems run inefficiently). We diagnose the specific cause and recommend the most cost-effective fix.
Are your technicians licensed and insured?
Absolutely. Hot 2 Cold holds Florida contractor license CAC1816786. All technicians are licensed, background-checked, and fully insured. We carry general liability and workers compensation — so you're protected if anything happens on your property.
What makes Hot 2 Cold different from the big Tampa AC chains?
Three things set us apart: (1) Our technicians work for salary, not commission — so recommendations are honest, not driven by sales goals. (2) We're truly local to the area with our office at 1503 S US Hwy 301 STE 101 #81, not driving from Tampa or Sarasota. (3) We use marine-grade, Florida-rated components as standard practice — not cheap parts that corrode and fail in 2-3 years.
Do you offer discounts for Tampa homeowners?
Yes — we offer a 5% discount for seniors, military, teachers, and civil servants (one discount per customer). On top of that, our Maintenance Club membership provides $1 service calls (normally $79), 15% off all repairs, and priority emergency scheduling — ongoing savings that add up fast.
My Tampa home feels humid even when the AC is running. What’s wrong?
Yes. Mini-split installation in condos and apartments is a significant part of our Tampa business. We handle condo board approval coordination, penetration requirements for refrigerant lines, and ensure installation meets building code and HOA/condo association requirements. We've worked in many downtown Tampa and South Tampa condo buildings and know the process.
? Still have questions? Call (813) 355-9698 for a free consultation

Schedule Your Tampa AC Service Today

Don’t wait until your AC fails on the hottest Tampa afternoon. Whether you need emergency repair, routine maintenance, a new system installation, or honest advice about your historic home’s HVAC options, Hot 2 Cold delivers fast, respectful service to Tampa homeowners.

Call Now: (813) 355-9698

Hot 2 Cold Air Conditioning
1503 S US Hwy 301 STE 101 #81,
Tampa, FL 33579
License: CAC1816786

Service Area: South Tampa, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Seminole Heights, Westchase, Carrollwood, New Tampa, Temple Terrace, Town N Country, Davis Islands, and all of the Tampa metro. Also serving Tampa, Brandon, Holiday, and throughout Hillsborough County

Hours: 24/7 Emergency Service Available | Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-6pm, Saturday 8am-4pm