Consumer Tips

When and Why You Should Consider Installing a New AC Unit

If you own a heat pump or air conditioner that has not been replaced in more than 10-15 years, you should consider replacing the unit with a high-efficiency heat pump or air conditioner rather than continuing to only repair the unit.  In the long run, this will save you money in repair costs and through the energy efficiency savings provided by the new unit.  You will see the savings reflected each month on your utility bills.  Installing an energy efficient unit will also help protect the environment, reduce electricity usage, and preserve our natural resources.

If you are thinking of installing a new system or having your existing system upgraded, call the Arizona Heat Pump Council at 602-248-7767 or 1-800-368-7767 for a free referral to a licensed, reputable contractor.

Available Rebates and Tax Credits
Tax Credits and incentives may be available to consumers who purchase high efficiency air conditioners or heat pumps as well as rebates from APS or rebates from SRP for qualifying units. You will want to install a unit with a high enough *SEER and **EER rating per the utility requirements.

*SEER is "Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio" – It is a measure of the efficiency of a heat pump or AC system over a typical summer season.

**EER is "Energy Efficiency Ratio" – It is a measure of the efficiency of a heat pump or AC system during high temperature conditions. In Arizona's hot summers, EER is an important measure of efficiency during hot summer days.

Important Questions to Ask Your Contractor Are you licensed, bonded and insured?
  • Have you been in business in Arizona for more than one year?
  • Do you have unresolved complaints with the Registrar of Contractors and is your license in good standing? And are there any unresolved complaints with the Better Business Bureau?
  • Can you provide positive customer recommendations and referrals?
  • Do you inspect and repair leaking ducts?
  • Will you provide professional written estimates including a Heating and Cooling Load Analysis, SEER performance data and an estimate of savings on my heating and cooling bill?
Additional Criteria to Consider
  • Company participates in annual continuing education
  • Participate in dispute resolution through third party arbitration
  • Specialize in service and replacement of heat pump and air conditioning systems
  • Have signed a customer satisfaction Pledge of Performance
  • Provide maintenance agreements
  • Provide and explain written warranties
  • Business address is published and service trucks are clearly identified
Arizona Heat Pump Council members abide by all the criteria above and are licensed, bonded, and insured contractors in good standing with the Registrar of Contractors and the Better Business Bureau.

What Should an Estimate from a Contractor Include?
  • A proposal for a high-efficiency heat pump or air conditioner complete with a payback analysis
  • Savings analysis including potential utility rebates and tax credits
  • A Heating and Cooling Load Analysis to determine the appropriate size unit for your home
  • An examination of the ductwork and duct insulation and the cost to repair any problems
  • An analysis to ensure that your system has the proper amount of refrigerant and airflow
  • A list of references regarding the contractor’s qualifications and training on equipment selection, sizing, installation and ductwork repair