Zone 2BHot (Zone 2)

Climate Zone 2B - Hot, Dry

Hot summers with low humidity. Moderate heating needs with large temperature swings. This climate zone encompasses parts of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and includes major cities like Albuquerque, El Paso, Bakersfield, Reno.

Design Temperatures

Winter Design Temperatures

20°F to 35°F

Used for heating load calculations and equipment sizing

Summer Design Temperatures

95°F to 105°F

Used for cooling load calculations and equipment sizing

Heating & Cooling Degree Days

Heating Degree Days (HDD)

2,000 - 4,000

Base 65°F. Higher numbers indicate more heating requirements and longer heating seasons.

Cooling Degree Days (CDD)

2,000 - 4,500

Base 65°F. Higher numbers indicate more cooling requirements and longer cooling seasons.

HVAC System Considerations

Key Considerations

  • High cooling loads
  • Moderate heating needs
  • Large diurnal temperature swings
  • Dust and UV protection
  • Low humidity year-round

Common Equipment

  • Heat pumps
  • Evaporative cooling in appropriate areas
  • Two-stage systems
  • Gas furnaces with AC

Energy Code Requirements

Equipment Efficiency

  • SEER 13+ minimum
  • HSPF 7.7+ for heat pumps
  • Radiant barriers
  • Window solar heat gain limits

Insulation Requirements

Walls:R-13 to R-19
Ceiling:R-30 to R-38
Floor:R-13 to R-19

Quick Reference

Zone:2B
Temperature:Hot
Moisture:Dry (B)
States:5
Cities:5

Calculate Load

Use our load calculators with the design temperatures and requirements specific to Zone 2B.