A Legacy of Comfort Since 1936
Payne Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. has proudly served Central Florida for nearly nine decades. Our story began in Lakeland, Florida in 1936, when founder Charles Payne opened the doors to a small heating and appliance business. Back then, we sold fuel oil, heaters, and household appliances—earning the trust of our neighbors with quality products and reliable service.
By the 1950s, as home comfort needs evolved, so did we. We began installing window and room air conditioning units, bringing a new level of comfort to Florida homes. In 1968, we officially became Payne Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc., a name that reflects our full commitment to heating and cooling solutions.
We’re proud to be the oldest Carrier® dealer in Florida, having partnered with this trusted brand since at least 1955. That longevity and consistency speak volumes about the values that still drive our business today: quality, honesty, and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction.
Through decades of leadership changes—each one rooted in our local community—we’ve remained a locally owned and operated company. From Charles Payne to Charles Stoffel, to Ron Knoll and Steve Walker, and now under the ownership of Frank Lansford since 2007, our leadership has always lived and worked right here in Lakeland. That local connection is part of who we are.
Today, Payne Air Conditioning & Heating is one of the region’s most trusted names in HVAC service, repair, and installation. With over 115 full-time employees and a fleet of 45 service and 37 installation vehicles, we provide expert solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial clients throughout Central Florida.
Our technicians and installers receive extensive, ongoing training to stay current with the latest technologies and standards. We’re proud of our team, whose average length of employment is currently 7 years—a true testament to our positive work environment and strong company culture.
We also offer a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance as well as a matching 401(k) plan. We believe in taking care of our people so they can take care of our customers.
At Payne, customer satisfaction isn’t just a promise—it’s our foundation. We understand that our customers have high expectations, and we’re driven to meet and exceed them every day. Our goal is simple: to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient HVAC solutions that offer comfort, performance, and long-term value.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Integrity and Honesty: Our technicians are paid hourly, not on commission. That means you’ll never be sold something you don’t need—just honest recommendations and straightforward service.
- Transparent Pricing: We use flat-rate pricing so you know the cost of repairs upfront. No surprises, no pressure.
- Unmatched Experience: Our longevity in the community and experienced workforce give us a competitive edge that’s hard to match.
- People-First Approach: From our customer care to our team culture, we invest in people—and it shows.
For over 85 years, Payne Air Conditioning & Heating has been helping Floridians stay cool, comfortable, and confident in their HVAC systems. We’d be honored to serve you next.
