Quick answer: Condos, townhomes and older homes around the Fountain Hills town center often have rooftop equipment, small mechanical closets and HOA approval steps, so plan access and approvals before replacing equipment.
The streets around Avenue of the Fountains and Fountain Park are where the town began. McCulloch Properties founded the community in 1970, the same year the fountain was built, and the town incorporated in 1989. The fountain itself can reach about 560 feet with all three pumps and normally runs at about 300 feet for 15 minutes each hour. Around it you will find condos, townhomes and some of the oldest single-family homes in town.
Condos and townhomes
- Equipment on shared roofs. Many complexes put condensers or package units on the roof. Access, roof protection and HOA approval all need to be arranged before a replacement.
- Small mechanical closets. Air handlers squeezed into hall closets limit filter size and service access. Replacement equipment must fit the space.
- Shared walls help. Interior units gain less heat, so a smaller system often does the job.
Older homes near the center
Homes from the 1970s and early 1980s can still have original ductwork, older electrical panels and less insulation than newer homes. Before replacing equipment, it is worth checking the ducts; our ductwork guide explains what to look for.
HOA approvals
Ask your HOA what it needs before work starts: some require an architectural request for any change visible from outside, a crane schedule, or proof of insurance from the contractor. We can provide our license and insurance documents.
Permits
Permits in town go through Fountain Hills Building Safety at Town Hall, 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains (480-816-5123). Applications are filed online in the town’s TOPPS system, and inspections run 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. The town adopted the 2024 International Mechanical, Residential and Energy Conservation Codes for applications received on or after September 1, 2025. Whether a straight equipment swap needs a permit is Building Safety’s call, so we confirm it for your address and pull the permit when one is required.
Common questions
When was Fountain Hills founded?
McCulloch Properties founded it in 1970, the year the fountain was built; the town incorporated in 1989.
How high does the fountain go?
About 560 feet with all three pumps; it normally runs at about 300 feet.
Do condo AC replacements need HOA approval?
Often, especially for rooftop work or anything visible from outside.
Condo or townhome AC problem? Call 480-336-2721 and tell us your street or neighborhood in Fountain Hills.