Simone Lawson
Arizona is one of the hottest places on Earth from May to September, with summer temperatures soaring well above 100°F. Heat-related illnesses are common, and the extreme heat can even be fatal. As a result, Arizona has strict laws regarding air conditioning and tenant rights. Each city sets its own codes regarding the maximum indoor temperature, and landlords are required to provide rental units that are safe, fit, and habitable. Given the extreme temperatures, it is important to understand what constitutes an emergency temperature for HVAC in Arizona to ensure that your system is adequately prepared to handle the heat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Maximum indoor temperature in Phoenix, Arizona | 82°F if cooled by air conditioning, 86°F if cooled by evaporative cooling |
| Maximum indoor temperature in Tempe, Arizona | 82°F if cooled by air conditioning, 88°F if cooled by evaporative cooling |
| Time limit for landlords to fix broken AC | 10 days |
| Number of people who visit Arizona emergency rooms each year due to heat-related illnesses | 4,298 |
| Number of people who have died from exposure to excessive heat in Arizona from 2012 to 2023 | 4,320 |
| Recommended thermostat settings in Phoenix, Arizona | 72°F-75°F |
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What You'll Learn
- Landlord-tenant laws: Landlords must provide safe, habitable units with functional appliances
- Tenant rights: Tenants are entitled to cooling; landlords must fix AC issues within ten days
- Health risks: Extreme heat in Arizona has caused thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths
- Power bills: AC usage affects power bills; setting thermostats higher saves money
- HVAC wear and tear: Extreme temperatures can cause HVAC systems to deteriorate
Landlord-tenant laws: Landlords must provide safe, habitable units with functional appliances
In Arizona, extreme heat and soaring temperatures are common, with summer averages in Phoenix and Tucson reaching well above 100 degrees. This heat is not just uncomfortable but can also be dangerous. Thus, Arizona law requires that rental units be safe, fit, and habitable with fully operating appliances.
Landlord-tenant laws vary across states, but generally, landlords must provide safe, habitable units with functional appliances. This is known as the
The specific standards for rental units vary depending on the city in Arizona. For example, in Phoenix, rental units with air conditioning cannot exceed a maximum temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit, while evaporative coolers are allowed a slightly higher maximum temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures are based on the type of cooling unit installed and the outdoor temperature, which is usually less than 20 degrees lower.
If a tenant encounters a malfunctioning or broken appliance, they should notify their landlord in writing. In Arizona, landlords have ten days to fix the problem, which may include providing a new appliance or calling in a repair team. If the landlord fails to take action within the specified time frame, tenants may be able to utilize the self-help repair statute, allowing them to notify the landlord of their intention to fix the issue themselves and deduct the cost from their rent.
It is important to note that tenants should not be expected to endure uninhabitable conditions. In some cases, withholding rent may be permitted or encouraged by law when there is a substantial reduction in habitability. Additionally, tenants should carefully review their lease agreements, as they may outline specific responsibilities for appliance repairs and replacements.
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Tenant rights: Tenants are entitled to cooling; landlords must fix AC issues within ten days
Arizona is one of the hottest places on Earth from May to September. The state's two largest cities, Phoenix and Tucson, are heat islands, where tall buildings and concrete reflect and intensify the heat. In 2017, Arizona saw 155 heat-related deaths, and heat-related illnesses are common during the summer. Therefore, it is important to understand your rights as a tenant when it comes to air conditioning.
Under Arizona law, tenants are entitled to cooling. Each city sets its own codes regarding the maximum temperature a rental unit's interior can be. For example, in Phoenix, rental units that use air conditioning cannot exceed a maximum temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Evaporative coolers are allowed a slightly higher maximum temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit. If there is an air conditioning unit installed in a Phoenix apartment, the landlord must ensure that the premises cool to 82 degrees, or at least 20 degrees less than the outside temperature.
If your rental unit has a broken AC, it is important to take steps to ensure your safety. Arizona law requires landlords to provide a rental unit that is safe, fit, and habitable. Landlords are not allowed to cut off utilities to "punish" tenants, as per Arizona statute Title 33-1374. From the day you notify your landlord in writing, they have ten days to fix the problem (per Title 33-1363). This may mean providing a new air conditioning unit, calling in a repair team, or otherwise bringing your indoor temperature down to legally acceptable limits.
If your landlord fails to repair the broken AC within ten days, renters may be able to make use of the self-help repair statute. Arizona law (Title 33-1363) allows you to notify your landlord that you will be fixing an issue yourself and deducting the cost from your rent. Be sure to keep receipts for the repair work. If your landlord does not make the repair within the allotted time, you may also have other options, such as terminating your lease or suing for damages under certain circumstances.
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Health risks: Extreme heat in Arizona has caused thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths
Arizona is one of the hottest places on Earth from May to September. The extreme heat in Arizona has caused thousands of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Heat-related illnesses (HRIs) are common during the summer, with approximately 4,298 people visiting Arizona emergency rooms each year due to HRIs. From 2012 to 2023, more than 4,320 people died from exposure to excessive heat in Arizona.
The state's two largest cities, Phoenix and Tucson, are "heat islands" where tall buildings and concrete reflect and intensify the heat. Summer average temperatures in these cities can reach well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In 2017, Arizona recorded 155 heat-related deaths, five more than the previous year. The elderly, the chronically ill, and the homeless are most at risk. The homeless population in Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, far exceeds shelter capacity, and unsheltered homeless people are exposed to the heat for prolonged periods, increasing their vulnerability.
In 2023, Phoenix experienced the hottest three months since record-keeping began in 1895, with a daily average temperature of 97 degrees Fahrenheit in June, July, and August. Phoenix also set a record in July 2023 with a 31-day streak of highs at or above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. That year, there were 645 heat-associated deaths in Maricopa County, more than 50% higher than in 2022 and a consecutive annual record. Two-thirds of these deaths were individuals aged 50 and above, and 71% occurred on days when the National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning.
To address the growing problem of heat-related deaths, Arizona appointed Dr. Eugene Livar as the first statewide heat officer in the nation under Gov. Katie Hobbs' extreme heat preparedness plan. Phoenix and Miami also have their own heat officers to develop strategies to protect people and communities from extreme heat. Reducing the urban heat island effect is crucial not only for lowering the heat-related death rate but also for making southern Arizona cities more habitable in the long term.
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Power bills: AC usage affects power bills; setting thermostats higher saves money
Arizona is one of the hottest places on Earth from May to September, with summer average temperatures in Phoenix and Tucson, the state's two largest cities, reaching well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat-related illnesses are common during the summer, with approximately 4,298 people visiting Arizona emergency rooms every year due to this issue. In 2017, Arizona recorded 155 heat-related deaths, and from 2012 to 2023, more than 4,320 people died from exposure to excessive heat.
Due to the extreme heat, air conditioning is essential in Arizona. However, AC usage can significantly impact power bills. According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for up to 48% of home energy consumption. Therefore, adjusting your thermostat can be an effective way to reduce electricity costs.
When you set a lower temperature on your AC, the compressor works longer, resulting in higher power consumption. Conversely, increasing the temperature causes the compressor to work for a shorter duration, leading to reduced power consumption. For example, setting your AC at 27°C instead of 18°C can lower your electricity bill by over 30%. Additionally, each degree increase in AC temperature can save about 3-5% of electricity, according to Mili Majumdar, managing director of the Green Business Certification Institute.
To save money on your power bills, consider setting your thermostat a few degrees higher. The Department of Energy recommends adjusting your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees from its normal settings for 8 hours per day, which can result in annual savings of up to 10%. For instance, during warm seasons, aim for 78°F, and increase it to 85°F when no one is home. By following these guidelines, homeowners can save an average of $83 per year.
In addition to thermostat adjustments, there are other energy-saving tactics you can implement. For instance, you can turn off lights when leaving a room, use ceiling fans in occupied rooms, and wear lightweight clothing and breathable fabrics like cotton. These simple measures can help you save money on your power bills while maintaining a comfortable environment.
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HVAC wear and tear: Extreme temperatures can cause HVAC systems to deteriorate
Arizona is one of the hottest places on Earth from May to September, with summer temperatures soaring well above 100°F. Heat-related illnesses are common, with around 4,300 people dying from excessive heat in the state between 2012 and 2023. With such extreme temperatures, it's no surprise that HVAC systems are essential in Arizona. However, this heavy usage can lead to wear and tear on these systems, causing issues such as airflow problems, overheating, and inconsistent temperatures.
Unusual Noises
One of the first signs of wear and tear on an HVAC system is the emergence of unusual noises. When components deteriorate or become loose, they may produce rattling, buzzing, or whining sounds. This issue is more than just a nuisance; it indicates that an inspection or repair is needed to avoid further damage.
Delayed Response to Temperature Adjustments
Another early warning sign is a noticeable delay in responding to temperature adjustments. A well-functioning HVAC system should adjust temperatures within a few minutes. If your system is struggling to keep up, it may be showing signs of wear and tear.
Increased Energy Bills
An unexplained rise in energy costs, despite consistent usage, often indicates an inefficient HVAC system. Inefficiency can result from worn-out components such as motors, belts, and bearings, which become less effective over time. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any inefficiencies can help minimize additional strain on the system.
Frequent Repairs
An HVAC system requiring frequent repairs is a clear sign of deterioration. While occasional maintenance is expected, persistent issues indicate that the system has reached a critical point. At this stage, it's crucial to evaluate whether to continue repairing or invest in a new system.
Reduced Air Quality
Wear and tear on an HVAC system can lead to reduced air quality and comfort levels. Clogged filters, leaks, or malfunctioning components can result in uneven temperatures and harmful indoor air pollutants. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these issues can help lower the chances of your HVAC system suffering from performance issues.
To summarize, extreme temperatures in Arizona can put a strain on HVAC systems, leading to wear and tear over time. By recognizing the signs of deterioration, homeowners can take proactive steps through regular maintenance and timely repairs to ensure their HVAC systems work efficiently and last as long as possible.
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Frequently asked questions
Although there is no set temperature that is deemed too hot for rental units in Arizona, temperatures often exceed 100°F in the summer, and the state is considered one of the hottest places on earth from May to September. Extreme heat warnings have been issued in the past, and heat-related illnesses are common.
For most people, a thermostat setting of 68-70°F is comfortable, but this takes a lot of energy to maintain. Bumping the temperature up to 72°F or even 75-80°F can make a big difference in your overall energy bills.
In Phoenix, rental units that use air conditioning cannot exceed 82°F, while evaporative coolers are allowed a maximum temperature of 86°F. If landlords fail to repair broken AC units within ten days, tenants may be able to use the self-help repair statute and deduct the cost from their rent.
