When the summer heat settles into Sierra Vista, having a well-functioning home air conditioning system is an absolute must. When you first start looking at AC units, you'll realize there are various types with a variety of SEER2 ratings and other features. Here, we'll provide a detailed guide to help you choose the ideal air conditioning system to meet your household's cooling demands.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

There are several types of cooling systems to consider. One of the most popular is the central air conditioning system that relies on ductwork in your home to deliver cool air throughout. This option often pairs with an existing furnace. Another option is a heat pump, which provides both heating and cooling in a single system. This can be a popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade both their air conditioner and heating system at the same time. Lastly, ductless mini-split systems use heat pump technology but do not require ductwork. These are excellent for homes without ducts or for zoned cooling needs.

Ensuring Proper Sizing

One of the most important factors when selecting a new air conditioner is choosing the right size system. Instead of relying on BTU ratings alone, HVAC technicians perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the proper capacity for your home. This calculation factors in square footage, insulation levels, window and door placement, and more. If you purchase a unit that’s too small, it won’t keep up with Sierra Vista’s summer heat. On the other hand, a system that’s too large may short cycle, wasting energy and failing to remove humidity effectively. Proper sizing ensures both efficiency and comfort. With ductless mini-splits, each indoor unit must also be sized correctly for the room it’s placed in.

SEER2 Ratings

SEER2, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, measures how efficiently an air conditioning system operates under updated testing standards that better simulate real-world conditions. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more efficiently the system cools your home. Because Sierra Vista experiences very hot summers, a high-efficiency unit is worth considering to keep cooling costs in check. Just keep in mind that while higher SEER2 systems lower long-term energy use, they typically cost more upfront. Most homeowners will want to balance the two.

Tax Incentives

Don’t overlook available tax incentives and rebates when choosing a new system. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 provides energy-efficiency tax credits, but the total annual cap of $3,200 covers all eligible upgrades, not just air conditioning. For example, qualifying central AC systems may receive up to $600 in tax credits, while qualifying heat pumps can receive up to $2,000. Local utility companies and state programs may also offer rebates or bill credits for upgrading to energy-efficient systems, making your investment even more affordable.

Smart Technology Integration

Modern AC systems often integrate smart technology, making them easier to manage and more efficient. Options like Wi-Fi connectivity and smart thermostats allow you to control settings from your phone, automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away, and optimize energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

Best Time for Installation

The best time to replace an aging AC system is before it fails. While spring is often a busy time for AC installations in Sierra Vista, scheduling early can help ensure you’re prepared before summer’s peak demand. Some manufacturers may also run seasonal promotions, giving you better pricing or financing options.

Professional Installation Is a Must

Air conditioning systems are complex, and professional installation is critical for efficiency, performance, and warranty protection. Most manufacturers only sell to licensed contractors, and they require professional installation for warranties to remain valid. By having one of our trained technicians install your new system, you’ll know it’s sized correctly, installed safely, and covered by its full warranty. You’ll also avoid the risks of DIY mistakes that could shorten the system’s lifespan.

Superior AC Installation Service

One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® offers superior AC installation services for the Sierra Vista, AZ region. We can also assist with all your AC maintenance, repair, and replacement needs. Just call us today to schedule your next appointment with one of our helpful HVAC technicians.