Summer in Tucson brings plenty of sunshine and plenty of heat. While we might not hit the same record-breaking highs as Phoenix, temperatures regularly climb into the 100s for weeks. That kind of heat demands a dependable cooling system, especially when your comfort, health, and energy budget are on the line. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we know how important it is to keep your home cool without increasing energy costs. That’s why we offer expert cooling services designed to keep your AC system running efficiently, no matter how hot it gets outside. Whether you need a quick repair, seasonal maintenance, or a full system upgrade, we’re here to help you beat the heat without breaking the bank.

How Well Maintained Your Home Matters

Cooling your home efficiently starts with the home itself. While Tucson’s heat is widespread, some areas and homes may experience hotter conditions than others, especially if your home has direct west-facing exposure or minimal shade. Rooms that get afternoon sun or sit above a hot garage can stay warmer longer into the evening. Insulation, window type, and door seals all greatly affect how hard your AC has to work. If your home lacks proper insulation or has single-pane windows, it’s much easier for outside heat to creep in. Drafts around doors and windows are easier to detect, just hold your hand near them on a hot day, and you’ll feel the difference. If your home has older doors or windows, upgrading to energy-efficient models with low-E coatings or double-pane glass can help reduce heat gain and lower your cooling bills over time.

Tips for Energy Efficiency

The cost of keeping your home cool can vary greatly depending on your setup. Luckily, there are several ways to make your cooling more efficient without sacrificing comfort.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

If you’re still using a manual or outdated programmable thermostat, it may be time to upgrade. While some older models can last over a decade, their lack of precision and features often makes them less efficient. A smart thermostat gives you the ability to schedule temperature changes, adjust settings remotely, and even automate based on your location. For example, setting your home to 80°F while you're away during the day and 75°F before you return can result in noticeable energy savings. Some smart thermostats also learn your preferences and adjust automatically for maximum comfort and efficiency.

Zone Your Home

Zoning your HVAC system means dividing your home into areas that can be cooled independently. This is standard with multi-zone ductless mini-split systems, but you can also zone a ducted system with the right controls and motorized dampers. In a two-story home, you might set different temperatures upstairs and downstairs. Or, in larger homes, you can isolate cooling to areas in use—like keeping bedrooms cool at night while saving energy in unused living spaces. Zoning can improve comfort and reduce your energy bills, especially in homes with uneven cooling patterns.

Check for Duct Leaks

Leaky ductwork is one of the biggest sources of energy loss in residential HVAC systems. Air can escape through loose connections or damaged duct sections, especially in hot attics or crawl spaces. In addition to leaks, uninsulated ducts can allow heat to infiltrate your cooled air before it ever reaches the living space. Leaks may develop over time due to vibration, age, or even pest activity. Having your ductwork inspected and sealed by a professional can significantly improve system efficiency and may reduce your utility bills by 20% or more.

Replace Your Cooling System Altogether

If your AC is more than 10–15 years old, or if it still uses R-22 refrigerant, it may be time to consider a replacement. Older systems are not only less efficient but can also struggle to keep up with Tucson’s summer heat. High-efficiency systems with a higher SEER2 rating use less energy and cool more effectively. It’s also important to make sure your system is properly sized. Oversized units may cycle on and off too quickly, causing uneven cooling and wasted energy. Undersized systems may run constantly and still fail to reach your desired temperature. Our team can help evaluate your home and recommend a system that’s just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Reduce Cooling Costs in Extreme Heat?

Schedule annual tune-ups and duct inspections to ensure your system is operating efficiently. Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees during peak hours, improving insulation, and using ceiling fans can also help reduce energy use.

What’s the Best Thermostat for Arizona Homes?

Smart thermostats are a great fit for Arizona’s climate. They allow you to control your system remotely, program cooling schedules, and automate changes based on your habits or location. We’re happy to recommend and install a model that fits your needs.

Should I Zone My Home?

It depends on your home’s size and layout. Smaller homes may not see major benefits unless they have specific hot spots. Larger or multi-story homes benefit most from zoning, as it allows more precise control over each area’s temperature, saving energy while improving comfort. Whether you want to seal your Tucson home's ducts, upgrade your thermostat, or replace your cooling system altogether, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® is here to help. We’ll make sure your system is optimized to keep you cool and comfortable, without skyrocketing energy bills. Contact us today for fast, reliable service throughout Tucson and the surrounding areas.