Zone 3AWarm (Zone 3)

Climate Zone 3A - Warm, Humid

Warm summers with humidity. Moderate heating and cooling needs throughout the year. This climate zone encompasses parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Arkansas, Virginia and includes major cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Memphis, Birmingham.

Design Temperatures

Winter Design Temperatures

10°F to 25°F

Used for heating load calculations and equipment sizing

Summer Design Temperatures

85°F to 95°F

Used for cooling load calculations and equipment sizing

Heating & Cooling Degree Days

Heating Degree Days (HDD)

2,500 - 4,000

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

Cooling Degree Days (CDD)

1,500 - 3,000

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

HVAC System Considerations

Key Considerations

  • Balanced heating and cooling loads
  • Humidity control important
  • Moderate equipment sizing
  • Seasonal changeover systems
  • Mold prevention

Common Equipment

  • Heat pumps
  • Gas furnaces with AC
  • Dual-fuel systems
  • Variable speed equipment

Energy Code Requirements

Equipment Efficiency

  • SEER 13+ minimum
  • HSPF 7.7+ for heat pumps
  • AFUE 80+ for furnaces
  • Duct insulation R-6 minimum

Insulation Requirements

Walls:R-13 to R-15
Ceiling:R-30 to R-38
Floor:R-19 to R-25

Quick Reference

Zone:3A
Temperature:Warm
Moisture:Moist (A)
States:7
Cities:5

Calculate Load

Use our load calculators with the design temperatures and requirements specific to Zone 3A.