Location: Phoenix, AZ
Service: AC Install
Issue: AC not cooling the home below 80 degrees
Diagnosis: The existing rooftop unit was not properly sized for the hottest summer days
Total investment: $10,500
Timeline: 1 Day Installation
Warranty: 10 Year Parts & 2 Year Labor
This Phoenix homeowner was having trouble keeping the house comfortable during the hottest parts of the summer. Even with the AC running, indoor temperatures would stay around 80°F on hotter days.
Before recommending replacement, we tried to improve the performance of the existing 3.5-ton system. We adjusted the blower speed and made airflow adjustments throughout the home to see if we could get more out of the existing equipment. Unfortunately, those changes weren’t enough to keep the home comfortable, and the homeowner later called us back to move forward with replacement.
For the replacement, we installed a new Goodman rooftop package unit, but we didn’t want to simply set a new AC on the roof and leave the existing airflow issues untouched.
We upsized the return duct to give the new system more return airflow and also upsized a supply duct feeding the other side of the home, which had been struggling to stay comfortable. Once the new equipment was running, we adjusted the blower speed to help dial in the airflow and comfort throughout the home.
At the rooftop unit, we installed a new insulated transition connecting the existing duct elbow to the new package unit. The existing elbow and rooftop stand were still usable, and at the homeowner’s request, we reused them to keep the project as cost-effective as possible. We also installed a new fused disconnect, electrical whip, PVC condensate drain line, and thermostat. We also provided the crane service needed to remove the old rooftop unit and safely set the new Goodman package unit in place.
After completing the installation and ductwork changes, we started the new system, made our final airflow adjustments, and checked system operation.
The combination of the new equipment and ductwork improvements made a major difference. The home can now comfortably maintain temperatures in the low 70s, even during Phoenix summer days around 115°F. The entire replacement and ductwork project was completed in under one day, and the homeowner was very happy with the improvement in comfort throughout the house.
This project is also a good example of why an AC replacement isn’t always just about installing new equipment. Proper system sizing, return air, supply airflow and final setup all play a role in how well a new AC actually performs.
If you feel like your AC in Phoenix isn’t performing during the hottest days, fill out the form below to set up a free, no obligation visit from Red Ribbon Cooling & Heating.