How to Choose the Right HVAC System for Your Arizona Home

A reliable air conditioning (AC) system is more than just a luxury—it’s necessary for comfortable living in Southern Arizona.

But with many options available, choosing the right AC equipment for your Tucson home can be daunting.

Hamstra Heating & Cooling created this guide to walk you through the essential considerations to help you select the perfect HVAC system tailored to your needs.

Factors such as the size of your home, energy efficiency ratings, and advanced features like smart technology all play crucial roles in making an informed decision.

Matching Your HVAC System to the Size of Your Arizona Home

One of the first and most critical steps in choosing a new HVAC system is determining the appropriate size for your Arizona home.

A system that’s too small will struggle to cool your space efficiently, leading to increased energy consumption and wear and tear on the equipment.

Conversely, an oversized unit may cycle on and off frequently, resulting in uneven temperatures and higher utility bills.

To accurately size your HVAC system, consider your home’s square footage, ceiling height, sun exposure, insulation levels, and the number of windows and doors—and whether they are sun-facing.

Consulting with a qualified Hamstra Heating & Cooling HVAC technician can help you perform a load calculation to determine the optimal system size based on your Tucson home’s design.

SEER2 Rating: Efficiency Matters, Especially in Arizona’s Heat

In Arizona’s blistering heat, energy efficiency is paramount for keeping cooling costs in check. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) measures an HVAC system’s energy efficiency over the cooling season.

The higher the SEER2 rating, the more efficient the system is at converting electricity into cooling power.

When shopping for an HVAC system in Tucson, look for models with high SEER2 ratings, ideally 16 or above, to ensure optimal energy savings.

Consider Enhanced HVAC Features

Besides size and efficiency, modern HVAC systems offer a range of enhanced features designed to improve comfort, convenience, and energy savings. Residents in Arizona shopping around for a new HVAC system should take into consideration the following features:

• ENERGY STAR^® Certification: Opting for an ENERGY STAR certified HVAC system ensures your equipment meets stringent energy efficiency standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ENERGY STAR certified systems consume less energy and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making them environmentally friendly choices.

• Innovative Technology: With the rise of smart home technology, many HVAC systems now have advanced controls and connectivity features. Smart thermostats allow you to remotely monitor and adjust your home’s temperature settings from your smartphone, providing greater flexibility and energy savings.

• Variable Speed Technology: Traditional HVAC systems operate at fixed speeds, cycling on and off to maintain the desired temperature. In contrast, units with variable speed technology can adjust their output levels dynamically based on real-time cooling demands. This results in more consistent temperatures, improved humidity control, and lower energy consumption.

Comparing Central Air Conditioners vs. Ductless Systems

When choosing an HVAC system for your Arizona home, you’ll likely encounter two primary options: central air conditioners and ductless mini split systems. Each has its advantages and considerations to weigh.

Central Air Conditioners: Central air conditioners use a network of air ducts to distribute cooled air throughout your home. They are well-suited for larger homes with existing ductwork and offer the benefit of whole-house cooling. However, ducted systems can suffer from energy losses due to leaks and insufficient insulation, decreasing efficiency.

Ductless Mini Split Systems: Ductless mini split systems consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air handling units via refrigerant lines. Since each indoor unit can be independently adjusted, they offer greater zoning and temperature control flexibility.

Ductless systems are ideal for Tucson homes without existing ductwork or room additions where extending ducts is impractical. Additionally, ductless systems eliminate the energy losses associated with ductwork, improving efficiency and lowering utility bills.

Arizona AC Tax Credits and Rebates

The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) offers a federal tax credit of up to $600 on qualifying high-efficiency AC units. Upgrade your equipment, lower your operating costs, reduce your carbon footprint—and increase your comfort!

Energy improvement tax credits are available for ductless units, geothermal, and other upgrades to your Arizona property. Our Hamstra team can also direct you to possible rebates to help you save even more money.

Contact Hamstra Heating & Cooling for Local AC Service in Tucson

By selecting an appropriately sized system with a higher SEER2 rating and enhanced features, you can ensure optimal comfort and energy savings for years to come.

Whether you opt for a central air conditioner or a ductless mini split, investing in a quality AC solution is critical to beating the heat and enjoying a cool oasis in Arizona’s desert climate.

Since 1983, Hamstra Heating & Cooling has been installing and servicing AC systems to homeowners throughout the Tuscon community, establishing itself as Southern Arizona’s premier destination for residential and commercial air conditioning and heating needs.

We’re a family business that wants to help our neighbors and provide greater peace of mind to our valued customers. We provide solutions that meet rigorous quality standards and undergo thorough testing to guarantee reliability and performance.

If you need help choosing the right HVAC system for your Arizona home, call us today at 520-629-9833 or request service online.