Relocating to Arizona comes with plenty of excitement, sunshine, and a lifestyle that invites you outdoors. It also comes with a reality that is hard to fully appreciate until you experience it: air conditioning in the desert is different.

Read on for all you need to know about why air conditioning in Arizona is different from other states, and how you can optimize your system to perform at its best. 

Why HVAC Systems Run Differently in Arizona

In many parts of the country, HVAC systems cycle on and off throughout the day. In Scottsdale, a system may run for long stretches, especially during peak summer season. 

Extended run time isn’t automatically a problem. In fact, it can be completely normal. However, it does mean that design and maintenance matter more than most homeowners expect.

Comfort Depends on the Whole System, Not Just the Brand

A common misconception is that equipment brand alone determines comfort. Brand matters, but performance is built on the full system. Proper sizing, duct design, airflow balance, insulation, window exposure, and installation quality all influence whether a home feels consistently comfortable.

A new unit can still struggle if the home has uneven airflow, undersized ducts, poor return air design, leaky ductwork, or excessive heat gain from large windows and sun exposure. These issues often show up as hot rooms, noisy operation, higher energy costs, or a home that never quite feels settled.

What Relocating Homeowners Should Look For

For relocating buyers, it helps to know what to look for beyond the outdoor unit. Ask about system age, but also ask how the home feels in the afternoon, whether there are noticeable hot spots, whether the home has been zoned properly, and whether maintenance has been performed annually.

A clean service history is often a stronger indicator of long-term reliability than appearance alone.

How Arizona’s Environment Affects HVAC Performance

Arizona also brings unique environmental factors. Dust is constant. Filters can load faster, coils can accumulate debris, and airflow can suffer if maintenance is neglected.

Extreme heat increases electrical and mechanical stress, which is why small issues can become big issues quickly during peak season.

Why Preventative Maintenance Matters More in the Desert

A preventative maintenance plan is not a luxury in the desert. It is a protective strategy. It helps keep refrigerant charge where it should be, protects compressors, improves efficiency, and reduces the likelihood of a disruption when you need cooling most.

For seasonal homeowners, it also provides peace of mind while you are away.

When HVAC Is Done Right, It Supports the Arizona Lifestyle

When your HVAC system is designed and maintained properly, it supports the Scottsdale lifestyle beautifully. Hosting guests feels effortless. Rooms stay consistent. Energy costs stay controlled. Your home feels like a destination, not a project.

A Smart Step for Arizona Homebuyers

If you are moving to Arizona or purchasing a home in the Valley, consider a professional HVAC evaluation as part of your due diligence. It is one of the smartest ways to protect comfort and long-term value.

To schedule an Essential System Inspection, contact Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning today.

Arizona homeowners know that the monsoon season brings dramatic weather changes. While the rain is a welcome relief from summer heat, it’s often accompanied by dust storms that sweep through neighborhoods and coat everything in their path.

Your air conditioning system, which works hardest during this season, is especially vulnerable.

Dust and debris stirred up by monsoon winds can cause more than a dirty exterior. These particles can make their way inside your unit, affecting efficiency, air quality, and even long-term reliability. The question is not just whether dust can damage your AC, but how it happens and what you can do to protect it.

How Dust Gets Into Your AC

Your AC system is built to handle outdoor conditions, but fine dust particles are persistent.

During a dust storm, these particles can infiltrate several parts of your unit:

• Outdoor condenser coils: Dust coats the coils, reducing heat transfer and forcing the system to work harder.
• Air filters: Filters clog quickly, restricting airflow and decreasing indoor comfort.
• Ductwork: If particles bypass the filter or enter through leaks, they can settle in ducts and circulate through your home.
• Internal components: Motors and fans can accumulate dust, leading to friction, overheating, or premature wear.

Even small amounts of dust can build up over time, creating layers that choke efficiency and lead to breakdowns if not addressed.

Signs Dust Is Affecting Your AC

It’s not always obvious when dust is causing problems, but there are clear warning signs to look for during monsoon season:

• Reduced airflow from your vents
• Unusual noises from the outdoor unit or blower
• A burning or musty odor when the system runs
• Higher-than-normal energy bills
• More dust settling around your home despite cleaning

If you notice these issues, your system may already be struggling with dust buildup. Scheduling a professional inspection can confirm the cause and prevent further damage.

Why Monsoon Dust Is Harder on AC Systems

Not all dust is created equal. Arizona monsoon dust is fine, dry, and plentiful, making it particularly tough on cooling systems. Unlike larger debris that can be brushed away, these tiny particles cling to coils and filters. They act like insulation, preventing the system from cooling efficiently.

When the unit works harder to overcome restricted airflow, it consumes more energy and generates more heat. This cycle of strain not only raises utility bills but also shortens the lifespan of major components like the compressor or blower motor.

Preventive Steps Homeowners Can Take

While you can’t stop dust storms, you can reduce their impact on your AC system with a few proactive measures:

• Replace air filters more often: During monsoon season, check filters monthly and replace them as needed to maintain airflow.
• Rinse the outdoor unit: After a storm, gently hose down the condenser coils to remove surface dust and debris.
• Seal ductwork and gaps: Leaky ducts allow more dust into your system. Sealing them improves both air quality and efficiency.
• Use high-efficiency filters: A filter with a higher MERV rating can capture finer particles, but make sure it matches your system’s capacity.
• Schedule seasonal tune-ups: Professional maintenance ensures coils are cleaned, moving parts are lubricated, and the system is checked for wear.

These steps protect both your AC’s performance and your home’s indoor air quality during storm season.

Professional Maintenance Makes the Difference

DIY steps help, but professional maintenance is the most effective way to prevent dust damage. Technicians have the tools and training to deep-clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure that dust hasn’t compromised critical components.

A professional tune-up also gives you peace of mind that your AC can handle the rest of the summer. You’ll enjoy better cooling efficiency, fewer repairs, and a longer system lifespan. Learn more about our AC maintenance services and how they keep your system in top shape.

When Dust Damage Requires Repair

Even with the best preparation, monsoon dust can sometimes cause problems that require repair. Common issues include overheating motors, short cycling, and reduced cooling capacity. In severe cases, compressors can fail due to excessive strain.

If your system is no longer cooling effectively or is making unusual noises, don’t ignore it. Quick repairs prevent further damage and restore your home’s comfort. Our team at Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning offers prompt AC repair services throughout Scottsdale and the surrounding areas.

Protect Your Home and Comfort

Arizona homeowners rely on air conditioning every summer, and monsoon dust can be one of the biggest threats to system health. Staying ahead of dust storms with proactive maintenance and quick response to warning signs keeps your system reliable and your indoor air comfortable.

At Forbes, we’ve helped local homeowners protect their systems through countless monsoon seasons. From professional tune-ups to fast repairs, we’re here to keep your AC running when you need it most.

Call Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Today

Don’t let monsoon dust damage your AC from the inside out. Protect your system with expert care from Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.

Call Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning at (480) 266-5211 today to schedule AC maintenance or repair service.

In Arizona, home comfort is less about freezing winters and more about surviving scorching, drawn-out summers. Still, there are plenty of mild winter nights when you’ll want dependable heat. That’s why the real decision isn’t just about cooling — since both systems handle that the same way. The real choice is how you want to heat your home: with a gas furnace paired with an AC, or with an all-electric heat pump system.

How AC + Furnace Systems Work in Arizona

Most Arizona homes use a paired system: an air conditioner for cooling and a natural gas furnace for heating.

• The AC handles our long, hot cooling season by pulling heat from inside and pushing it outdoors.
• The furnace provides warmth on those cooler desert nights by burning natural gas.

This setup is reliable and familiar, but it also means maintaining two separate systems and planning for the eventual replacement of both.

How Heat Pump Systems Work

A heat pump looks and works like an AC in the summer. The difference is that it can reverse itself to pull heat indoors when temperatures dip in winter.

• In summer, it functions exactly like an air conditioner.
• In winter, it delivers efficient, all-electric heating without the need for gas.

Since Arizona winters are mild, a heat pump rarely struggles to keep up. Many homeowners like the simplicity of having one system for year-round comfort.

AC & Furnace vs. Heat Pump Systems: The Pros and Cons

AC & Furnace Systems

Pros

• Lower upfront cost compared to heat pumps
• Built to handle extreme Arizona summers with ease
• Reliable, familiar heat from natural gas

Cons

• Requires maintaining two systems instead of one
• Furnace replacement adds to long-term costs
• Dependent on natural gas prices and availability

Maintenance Needs: ACs should be serviced yearly before summer, and furnaces need their own annual tune-up. Skipping either shortens system life and raises bills.

Heat Pumps

Pros

• One system handles both heating and cooling
• More energy-efficient during Arizona’s mild winters
• Can lower utility costs, especially with solar

Cons

• Higher upfront cost than a standard AC
• Runs year-round, which can mean more wear-and-tear
• Less effective in extreme cold (not an issue in Arizona)

Maintenance Needs: Because heat pumps run in both seasons, twice-a-year service – spring and fall – is recommended.

Considerations for Arizona Homeowners

When deciding between the two, think about your home and budget:

• Is your furnace near the end of its life? We can help you with the decision between a fossil fuel system or a modern & more efficient all electric system.
• How do you weigh efficiency vs. safety?  As a new system, either option will be efficient. However, all electric heat pumps remove the risk of carbon monoxide, a byproduct of a natural gas heater, deeming it a safer choice.
• What’s the state of your ductwork? Leaky or undersized ducts hurt performance no matter which system you choose.
• Looking for flexibility? Ductless heat pumps (mini-splits) provide zoned heating and cooling without major renovations.

Which Heating System Is Right for Your Home?

Gas Furnace System
✔ Strong, reliable heating – especially if your home is already set up for gas
✔ Lower upfront cost in many cases
✔ Familiar comfort with traditional technology

Heat Pump System
✔ All-electric system provides both heating and cooling with ease
✔ Great for homeowners looking for energy-efficient, eco-conscious comfort
✔ Works especially well in Arizona’s mild winter climate
✔ Compatible with solar for enhanced energy savings

No one system is right for every home. The best choice depends on your current setup, comfort goals, and budget.

Get Expert Help in Scottsdale

Both systems cool the same way during Arizona’s long summer season. The real choice comes down to how you want to heat: natural gas with a furnace, or all-electric with a heat pump.

At Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Scottsdale homeowners make that choice for decades. Our team can walk you through both options and recommend the best fit for your home.

Call or text us today at 480-266-5211 or contact us online to discuss the best option for your home.

It’s 3 p.m. in Scottsdale, the sun is blazing, and your AC has been running for hours, but somehow, it still feels hot inside. You check the thermostat, lower it another two degrees, and wait. Nothing changes. Sound familiar?

If your air conditioner is on but your home still feels uncomfortable, there’s usually a reason – and it’s not always what you think. The issue could be something small and easy to fix, or it might be a sign your system needs professional attention.

Arizona Heat Can Overwhelm Any AC

First, it’s worth understanding what your AC is up against. Most air conditioners are designed to cool indoor air about 20 degrees lower than the temperature outside. In Scottsdale, where summer temps regularly climb past 105°F, your system may be running perfectly and still struggle to cool your home below the mid-80s.

If it’s extremely hot outside, and your system runs non-stop without reaching your target temperature, it doesn’t always mean it’s broken, it may just be maxed out.

Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling Properly

If the problem seems worse than usual, your AC may be running inefficiently or trying to compensate for a deeper issue. Some of the most common causes include:

• Dirty air filters: One of the easiest – and most overlooked – reasons your AC might be struggling. To make filter changes less of a chore, we offer automatic filter delivery, so you always have a clean one when it’s needed! Order your filters here.
• Thermostat problems: If the thermostat is faulty or placed near heat sources or windows, it may not sense the actual room temperature correctly.
• Refrigerant leaks: Low refrigerant levels reduce your system’s ability to absorb heat. This often leads to warm air blowing from the vents.
• Leaky or disconnected ducts: Your AC may be producing cool air, but if it’s leaking into your attic or crawl space, it won’t reach your living areas.
• Oversized or undersized systems: An AC that’s too small may never cool your home fully. A system that’s too large might short-cycle, turning on and off frequently without removing humidity or distributing air evenly.

Your Home’s Setup Matters, Too

Sometimes, your AC isn’t the problem… your home is just absorbing more heat than it should. Poor insulation, large south-facing windows, unshaded glass doors, and lack of window coverings all contribute to higher indoor temperatures.

If sunlight pours into your home throughout the day, your AC is being asked to cool a space that’s actively heating up. Pair that with high humidity or poor airflow, and even the best system will fall behind.

Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

If your AC shows any of these signs, it may be time for a deeper look:

• The AC runs constantly but never cools to the temperature you’ve set
• Air from the vents feels weak or warm
• The unit turns on and off quickly (short cycling)
• Certain rooms stay hot, even when the rest of the house feels okay
• Your energy bills are spiking with no change in usage

Don’t wait until the system shuts down. These signs can point to worn-out parts, airflow problems, or efficiency loss, and they all get worse with time.

Get Back to Comfortable

In Scottsdale’s climate, a struggling AC isn’t just uncomfortable, but it can be unsafe. Whether your system needs a basic tune-up or a full diagnostic, getting ahead of the problem can prevent costly repairs later and keep your home safe through the hottest part of the year.

At Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we’ve seen every summer cooling issue Scottsdale can throw at a system. If your AC is running, but your home still isn’t staying cool, fill out our quick form to request a free HVAC estimate.

We’ll review it and be in touch to help you figure out what’s going on – and what to do next.

If you’re planning to leave Arizona for the summer, you might be asking, “Should I turn off my AC while I’m gone?”

With outdoor temperatures soaring past 100 degrees and summer sun beating down day after day, this is a decision that can impact your home’s comfort, efficiency, and even long-term integrity.

Here’s what Arizona homeowners and seasonal residents need to know before switching off their air conditioner.

Why Turning Off Your AC Completely Isn’t a Great Idea

It may seem like a money-saver to shut down your AC for the sumer, but in Arizona’s desert heat, this can actually put your home, indoor appliances and belongings at risk, especially if you’re gone for weeks or months.

When indoor temps climb into the triple digits:

• Wood floors, cabinets, and furniture can dry out, warp or crack.
• Personal belongings such as artwork, family photos, and keepsakes can fade or become heat-damaged.
• Electronics and appliances (refrigerators, wine rooms, ice machines) can overheat, degrade, or even fail due to overworking in extreme heat.
• Interior wall finishes such as paint or wall paper may blister, and adhesives can fail.
• Extreme heat can strain your AC system when restarted after months of disuse.
• Inactive AC units can become nesting spots for Arizona critters, who may chew wires or cause internal damage.

Instead of turning your system off entirely, the best approach is to raise the thermostat to reduce energy use while still protecting your home from extreme interior temperatures.

Best Thermostat Setting for a Vacant Arizona Home

Most experts recommend keeping your thermostat set between 80 and 85 degrees when you’re away. This helps:

• Avoid damage from exterior interior heat
• Reduce energy use while maintaining air circulation
• Ensure your system isn’t overworked when it cycles back on

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, use the eco or away setting and make sure the fan is set to auto, not “on,” to conserve energy.

Prep Tips for Arizona Snowbirds Before You Leave

Simple pre-departure steps can go a long way:

• Set water heater to vacation mode
• Unplug non-essential electronics and turn off ceiling fans
• Use timers or smart plugs for lights
• Adjust pool/spa timers to save energy
• Shut down or empty your fridge is away for over a month
• Close window coverings to block heat
• Install a smart thermostat to monitor and adjust remotely; remember, Forbes will be here all summer long to help you while you’re away!
• Utilize wifi smart water detectors in the case of a leak (under every sink, behind refrigerator, AC units, wine rooms, water heaters)
• Call Forbes to schedule AC maintenance and replace air filters before you go.

A well-tuned system helps avoid mid-summer issues when you;re not around to catch them.

Partner With Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning

At Forbes, we help Arizona homeowners and snowbirds prep their systems ready for summer. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a new thermostat, or peace of mind that your home is ready, we’re here for you.

Still looking for additional tips and tricks for the summer season, or wondering if you should turn off your AC before leaving the Valley? Don’t guess – give us a call or text at (480) 266-5211 or schedule online. We’ll make sure you’re set for a worry-free summer!

There’s never a good time for an AC failure, but when the AC stops working during a heatwave? That’s the worst — and depending on how high the temperature climbs and how long it takes for the heat to break, it can even be dangerous. 

Why a Heatwave Can Cause System Failure 

The official definition of a heatwave is a period of abnormally hot weather that lasts for at least two days. The temperature has to rise above the historical average for the date in your area. 

The typical air conditioner can only lower the indoor temperature to about 20 degrees less than the outside temperature; trying to lower the temperature much lower can put excessive strain on the cooling system. Unfortunately, this also means that a heatwave will force the equipment to work harder, which can lead to a system breakdown.

Older or neglected air conditioners can also struggle to keep up with heatwave conditions. Regardless of why your AC stops working during a heatwave, you need to act quickly to get it running again and find ways to stay comfortable in the meantime. 

Troubleshooting an AC Failure 

When your AC stops working during a heatwave, the problem may be minor. For example, if the air conditioning puts more strain on your electrical system, it can trip a breaker switch and cut power to the unit, and all you need to do is turn it back on. 

Other quick fixes to try include:

• Confirming the thermostat is set to cool and the battery didn’t die
• Replacing the air filter, if necessary, is always strongly recommended
• Checking the outside coils for ice and allowing them to thaw if frozen. When this occurs, it’s best to call Forbes as there are likely additional underlying concerns. 

If these tricks don’t work, call an HVAC company for emergency repairs and focus on keeping cool. 

Keep Your Home Comfortable During an AC Failure 

If the air conditioner fails, prevent heat related illness by drinking plenty of water; avoid dehydrating beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, avoid strenuous exercises, and soak your feet in ice water if you’re overheating. 

To keep your home cool, do the following:

• Invest in sun shades or vegetation that will reduce direct sun rays
• Close the curtains or blinds to block the heat from entering your home
• Avoid using heat-producing appliances
• Do NOT turn your AC off when you are out of town or at work. Turning the thermostat up no higher than 85 degrees will allow your home to avoid extreme heat that would otherwise overload your system when it needs to cool the space down again. 
• If your home has hard-to-cool rooms, mini split options may be an answer. 
• Complete a semi-annual HVAC maintenance to provide longevity to your system and catch issues before they arise. 

Arizona heatwaves are a constant in the forecast during our summer months. Take a few preventative steps to keep your home’s most essential systems working. Help your home find shade, set the thermostat a few degrees higher, keep the blinds closed, and avoid creating any excess heat to prevent overstressing the systems.

Above all, don’t forget your semi-annual maintenance!

Call Forbes Refrigeration & HVAC for Maintenance, Service & Emergency Repairs 

If your AC stops working during a heatwave, call or text (480) 266-5211 to reach Forbes Refrigeration & HVAC for emergency repairs. We can also help you explore upgrades and energy efficient replacements for reliable and affordable cooling year-round. 

Now through September, we are offering our customers $500 OFF a new ductless mini-split system, perfect for those hard to heat or cool spaces! Click here to learn more. 

If you own a Scottsdale, AZ home, you’re probably already well-equipped for the blazing hot weather that makes this one of the hottest states.

Whether it’s simply traditional air conditioners or a ductless mini-split, your cooling units keep your indoor climate from matching the outdoor 100+ degree temperatures that span May to October.

But should you also consider a unit for your hard-to-cool spaces?

Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning believes all residential rooms in constant use should feel comfortable, not only for those that reside within, but to aid your additional systems from working harder than they need to!

Below, our team explains the benefits of adding air handlers in these areas.

What Are the Benefits of Installing Mini Splits in Garages?

A garage is a place to park vehicles, store family memorabilia and likely additional refrigerators to hold hundreds (or thousands) of dollars of food, or gather family members around a pool table or outdoor theater system.

Whatever the case – garages aren’t as ventilated, leading to higher indoor temperatures and humidity.

Compact Sizing and Placement Options

Since the indoor part of mini-split systems comprises a compact evaporator unit while the condenser section rests on the grounds elsewhere, the system doesn’t take up too much of your storage space.

Moreover, choose your ductless mini-split placement depending on your layout. If most of your storage is on the floor, choose a wall or ceiling unit. Our team will be able to share options to optimize your new “cool” space by customizing your needs!

Favorable Costs and Energy Efficiency

Unfortunately, the heat adversely affects stored items, mechanics, and memorabilia, causing homeowners to believe they must choose between ruined objects or high cooling costs.

But because these systems don’t use ducts that consume 30% of cooling energy, mini splits prove more efficient. They also move heat rather than produce coolness, which burns less energy and keeps utility bills affordable.

Why Do Mini Splits Prove Beneficial in Guest Casitas?

If you’re considering mini splits for guest casitas instead, you and your guests or renters reap the following benefits:

Flexible Zoning for All

Everyone has their temperature preferences. While some may agree with the Energy Department’s 72-degree temperature suggestion, a mini-split can customize your environment, especially at different times of the day.

Because mini-split air conditioners allow you to set each air handler to a different cooling setting, you don’t have to worry about dictating your preferences. We all want to choose our own comfort level..

Noise Control for Absolute Comfort

Even with the right settings, individuals feel uncomfortable if a unit operates loudly, keeping them up at night or drowning out the TV or conversations.

Rest assured, the air handler fan also runs at low speeds, operating silently for absolute audible comfort.

Transform Rooms Outside Your Home with Optimal Cooling

Sometimes, the rooms that need some extra cooling TLC are not within your primary residence.

Whether you need to install a ductless mini split system or just a few more air handlers in your garage, home office, fitness room or guest casitas, call Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning and allow us to transform those hard to cool places into comfortable spaces!

At Forbes Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, our family-owned company guarantees white-glove service and your satisfaction, call or text (480) 266-5211 today!