HVAC Equipment &
Technology Guide
The equipment that works fine in Ohio will struggle in Texas — and the sales pitch that sounds reasonable often isn't. This section provides unbiased guidance backed by federal data, industry research, and field experience.
Understanding SEER2 Efficiency
As of January 2023, air conditioner efficiency is measured by SEER2. Texas falls in the DOE South Region with specific minimums.
| Equipment Type | Minimum SEER2 | Equivalent Old SEER |
|---|---|---|
| Split-system AC | 14.3 | ~15 |
| Split-system Heat Pump | 14.3 | ~15 |
| Packaged AC | 13.4 | ~14 |
| Packaged Heat Pump | 13.4 | ~14 |
Source: Department of Energy, effective January 1, 2023
Efficiency Upgrade Payback in Texas
Higher SEER ratings save more in Texas than moderate climates because systems run 2,200+ hours annually.
| Upgrade | Annual Savings (2,000 sq ft) | Simple Payback |
|---|---|---|
| 14.3 → 16 SEER2 | $85-120/year | 8-12 years |
| 14.3 → 18 SEER2 | $150-200/year | 7-10 years |
| 14.3 → 20+ SEER2 | $200-280/year | 8-12 years |
Estimates based on $0.12/kWh, 2,200 cooling hours annually
Sizing: The Most Common Mistake
Oversizing is the most frequent HVAC installation error in Texas — and it's often intentional.
Why Contractors Oversize
- • Eliminates callback risk for inadequate cooling
- • Larger equipment = higher invoice
- • Quicker installation (less calculation required)
- • Customer assumes "bigger is better"
Why Oversizing Hurts You
- • Short cycling: Shuts off before removing humidity
- • Increased wear: Starting stresses compressors more
- • Higher costs: More expensive to buy and operate
- • Poor dehumidification: Critical issue in Texas
The Sizing Reality Check
400-600 sq ft per ton
500-700 sq ft per ton
Manual J calculation for each home
Red flag: If a contractor quotes tonnage without measuring your home, asking about insulation, or performing calculations, they're guessing.
Equipment Types & Pricing
Central Air Conditioning
Best for homes with existing ductwork and whole-house cooling needs.
| Home Size | Tonnage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200-1,600 sq ft | 2.5-3 ton | $5,500-$8,500 |
| 1,600-2,200 sq ft | 3-3.5 ton | $6,500-$10,000 |
| 2,200-2,800 sq ft | 3.5-4 ton | $7,500-$11,500 |
| 2,800-3,500 sq ft | 4-5 ton | $9,000-$14,000 |
Prices include equipment, installation, permit, typical ductwork modifications. Premium brands and features add $2,000-$5,000.
Mini-Splits (Ductless)
Best for room additions, homes without ductwork, supplemental cooling, or garage/workshop cooling.
| Configuration | Capacity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single-zone | 12,000 BTU (1 ton) | $3,500-$5,500 |
| Single-zone | 18,000 BTU (1.5 ton) | $4,500-$6,500 |
| Multi-zone (2 heads) | 24,000 BTU (2 ton) | $7,500-$11,000 |
| Multi-zone (4 heads) | 36,000 BTU (3 ton) | $12,000-$18,000 |
Heat Pumps in Texas
Heat pumps work well in Texas for cooling and handle most winter days efficiently. DFW winter temperatures (20s-30s) are within effective heat pump range.
The Honest Assessment
- Highly effective for cooling (same as AC)
- Handle most DFW winter days efficiently
- Supplemental heat prudent for temperature extremes (like Winter Storm Uri)
Variable-Speed vs. Single-Stage
Single-Stage
- • Runs at 100% or off
- • Lowest upfront cost
- • Adequate for moderate climates
- • In Texas: runs constantly during extreme heat, short-cycles during mild weather
Two-Stage
- • Runs at ~65% or 100%
- • Better humidity control
- • Reduced cycling
- • In Texas: runs low stage most of the time, high stage for extreme days
Variable-Speed
- • Runs at 25-100% capacity
- • Best humidity control and efficiency
- • Quietest operation
- • In Texas: matches output to conditions continuously
Texas Recommendation
Two-stage minimum for homes over 2,000 sq ft. Variable-speed preferred for best comfort and efficiency, especially in humid areas.
Brand Reliability
Brand selection matters less than installation quality — but it's not irrelevant.
Highest Consumer Trust (2026)
- 1 Trane
- 2 Carrier
- 3 Lennox
- 4 Rheem
- 5 American Standard
Source: Lifestory Research 2025 America's Most Trusted® study
What Actually Matters
- Installation quality exceeds brand selection.
A properly installed mid-tier system outperforms a poorly installed premium system.
- Warranty terms vary.
Premium brands often include 10-year parts warranties standard.
- Texas service availability.
Ensure parts and warranty service are readily available locally.
Articles in This Section
AC Buying Guide for North Texas
Complete buyer's guide for new AC systems in Texas
SEER Ratings Explained
Understanding efficiency ratings for Texas climate
AC Sizing for Texas Homes
Proper sizing requirements and Manual J calculations
AC Brands Compared
Brand reliability and consumer trust data
Heat Pumps in Texas
Do heat pumps work in Texas climate?
Mini-Splits for Texas Homes
When ductless makes sense
Variable-Speed AC Guide
Two-stage and inverter technology benefits
When to Repair vs. Replace
Making the right decision for your system
Equipment FAQ
Common questions about HVAC equipment selection
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