There is nothing more crucial than making sure your home is built to fight against Arizona’s intense heat. Choosing the right air conditioner can be overwhelming when deciding the best fit for your home. Arizonan homeowners often debate between a single-stage, two-stage, and a variable-speed AC unit. Here’s what you should know about each AC unit when deciding what is the best fit for your home:
- Understanding AC stages
- Pros and Cons of each unit
- Why Two-Stage ACs fall short in Arizona
- What’s the better choice
- Are you being asked the right questions?
It is important to consider how each unit operates in Arizona’s extreme climate. As you continue reading, you will be able to see noticeable differences in each unit and what they can provide for you.
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Understanding Air Conditioning Stages
A single-stage HVAC system is the simplest type of system. It operates at full blast (100%) whenever it runs, providing 100% cooling power at all times. This is best for homeowners on a budget or those who don’t mind less comfort and efficiency. A single-stage unit is ideal for homeowners who do not plan to stay long term.
Two-stage units run at two speeds which are low (around 70%) and high (100%). The low stage is crafted for milder weather conditions and a high stage is for extreme temperatures. This is designed to balance energy efficiency and provide comfort.
A variable speed unit adjusts its cooling output based on the specific needs of the home. Variable speed works in small increments (from about 25% to 100%). This offers the most precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and a much more tailored approach to cooling.
Pros and Cons of Single Stage VS Two-Stage Units
Single-Stage
Pros:
- More affordable, budget friendly
- Simpler HVAC system, fewer parts to maintain
- Decent job cooling smaller homes
Cons:
- Built to maintain 115 degree weather conditions
- Least efficient at maintaining consistent temperatures
- Runs at 100% capacity all of the time
- Overworked and more repairs to occur
- Homeowners energy bill rises
Two-Stage
Pros:
- Run at either 70% or 100%
- Better at maintaining consistent temperatures compared to single-stage
- Better at managing the humidity
- Helpful in climates where temperatures fluctuate
- More quiet operation compared to the single-stage
Cons:
- More costly to purchase and install
- Humidity control is not a major benefit in Arizona’s dry climate
- Long, hot summers will cause system to run at full capacity which ends up being similar to a single-stage
Variable-Speed
Pros:
- Top-tier comfort and efficiency
- Operates in small increments from 10% up to 100%
- Most energy efficient
- Uses only the power it needs to maintain its temperature
- Longest lifespan due to on/off cycles
- Provides even temperatures throughout the home with no hot/cold spots
Cons:
- Upfront cost is more expensive to purchase and install
- If you have a smaller well insulted home, efficiency benefits may not be as noticeable
Why two-stage units fall short in Arizona
Arizona’s summers are brutal with temperatures often exceeding 100° degree heat. The summers make it difficult to keep up which then shifts the unit to full power mode, much like a single-stage system , eliminating much of its efficiency. The price difference doesn’t justify the performance.
What is the better choice?
If you live in Arizona, a two-stage AC unit may not be worth the investment. While it’s better than a single-stage unit, it doesn’t provide enough efficiency gains to justify the extra cost. Instead, if you’re upgrading, consider a variable-speed system to get the best cooling performance, lower energy bills, and superior comfort.
A variable-speed is the best option for homeowners who want the best of the best in energy efficiency, comfort, and humidity control – especially if you plan to stay in your home long-term.
Are you being asked the right questions?
At Rusty’s, we care about you and the well-being of your home. Our certified technicians will come to your house and assess which AC system is the best fit for your home. It is important for HVAC technicians to know your comfort level. Have you ever been asked what your energy bill is like? What about if your home is evenly cooled? Even being asked if you intend on staying in your home long term. These are all factors that are critical in determining which AC unit is efficient for your home. At Rusty’s Air Conditioning and Heating, our technicians go the extra mile and carefully assess what needs to be done.
Call us now to schedule your service or fill out our online form to get you started
Book your appointment today with Rusty’s AC and Heating and experience trustworthy advice and deliver exceptional value. We’re here to make sure your home stays comfortable year-round with an AC unit that fits you and your home’s needs.
