Staying cool in summer shouldn’t mean paying high electricity bills. With an energy efficient air conditioner, your family can enjoy a cool home without wasting energy or money. These newer AC units use smart technology to keep things comfortable and affordable.
Worried about higher cooling bills this year? Don’t be. This simple guide will help you learn what to look for when choosing an energy efficient air conditioner, how to find the right size, ways to use less energy, and where to get the best help.
Why Choose an Energy Efficient Air Conditioner?
An energy efficient air conditioner keeps your home comfortable and saves money. These models can use up to 23% less energy than older systems, which lowers your monthly bills.
There are more benefits, too. These ACs provide steady, comfortable temperatures, lessen humidity, and often run more quietly. Many come with smart features and better filters, so your air stays clean and fresh. This means better rest, more comfort, and a healthier home for your family. Plus, you’re helping the planet by using less energy.
Advanced features like variable-speed compressors and smart controls let your AC use only the energy it needs, no more, no less.
What to Look for in an Energy Efficient Air Conditioner
Understanding SEER2 and EER2 Ratings
When you shop for an air conditioner, you’ll see SEER2 and EER2 ratings.
- SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2): Tells you how much cooling you get during the season compared to the energy the AC uses. A higher SEER2 means better efficiency. Choose a unit with at least SEER2 16 for good energy savings.
- EER2 (Energy Efficiency Ratio 2): Shows how efficient the AC is during very hot days. Again, higher is better.
Both ratings use newer, more accurate rules. Simply put, the higher the number, the more energy efficient the air conditioner.
Picking the Right Size
Choosing the right size AC is important. If the unit is too large, it will turn on and off too often, which wastes energy and doesn’t remove humidity well. If it’s too small, it will run too much and still not keep the house cool.
To get the size right, have a professional look at your home’s size, how many windows you have, the insulation, and even the height of your ceilings. Most homes need a system between 1 and 5 tons (measured by BTUs per hour), but a pro can figure out what’s best for you.
Types of Energy Efficient Air Conditioners
- Central Air Conditioners: Cool the whole house through ductwork. Modern, high SEER2 central ACs are efficient and keep every room comfortable.
- Heat Pumps: These systems cool in summer and heat in winter. They use less energy than many old heating or cooling systems, especially in mild climates.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: Don’t use ducts and let you control temperatures in different parts of your home. They’re a great choice if you want to cool just a few rooms or add AC to a space without ducts.
Must-Have Features
- ENERGY STAR Certification: Look for the blue ENERGY STAR label. These models meet strict standards and may qualify for rebates.
- Variable-Speed Compressor: Lets the system run at slower speeds when possible, using less energy while keeping your home comfortable.
- Smart Thermostats and Controls: Make it easy to set schedules, control your AC from your phone, and avoid cooling when no one’s home.
- Better Air Filters: Many units now have special filters to help keep your air cleaner.
Using Your Energy Efficient Air Conditioner the Right Way
Set Your Thermostat Smartly
Set your thermostat to 78°F when you’re home and awake. Raise it 7-10 degrees when you’re out. This simple trick can save you 5-15% on your energy bills.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to make this easier. They can adjust temperatures automatically, so you don’t have to remember.
Maintenance Matters
Take care of your AC for best results. Change or clean the air filters every 1-3 months while you’re using it. Dirty filters make the unit work harder and use more energy.
Get a pro to check your system once a year. They’ll clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything works right. Regular checkups keep your system efficient and help it last longer.
Make Your Home Easier to Cool
Stop cool air from escaping by sealing leaks around your windows and doors. Add insulation if you can. Use ceiling fans to spread cool air around. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest hours to block out the sun.
Try not to use ovens, dryers, or dishwashers during the hottest parts of the day. These make your AC work harder. And keep inside doors open so cool air can move around.
Saving Money: What to Expect
Upfront Cost vs. Savings
Energy efficient air conditioners usually cost more to buy, but you’ll save on your bills month after month, often hundreds of dollars a year. Over 10-15 years, those savings can be thousands of dollars.
Don’t just look at the sticker price. Consider how much you’ll save on energy bills and how much longer a good system will last.
Rebates and Credits
Utility companies and the government often give rebates or tax credits for buying energy efficient air conditioners. Check with your local electric company and look for programs like the federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, which can save you even more.
Professional Help: The Fahrenheit AC Advantage
Picking an energy efficient air conditioner is important, but having it installed and serviced by experts matters just as much. This is where Fahrenheit AC shines for families in Florida.
Fahrenheit AC’s trained team will help you choose the perfect size unit for your home. They look at all the details, from your home’s insulation and layout to your family’s daily routine. This means you get a system that fits your needs and saves as much energy as possible.
Fahrenheit AC also offers maintenance plans to keep your air conditioner working its best year after year. This regular care helps your system last longer, use less energy, and save you money. Ready to upgrade? Visit fahrenheitacfl.com to get expert advice, installation, and service.
Take the Next Step
Choosing an energy efficient air conditioner is a smart move for your family and your budget. These systems keep you cool, save money, and help the environment.
The best results come from picking the right size, paying attention to the key features, and making sure your system is installed and cared for by a pro. Don’t forget to look for rebates and focus on long-term savings, not just the starting price.
Start your search today, ask questions, and compare your options. With the right energy efficient air conditioner, your family will stay cool for years, and your energy bills will be lower, too!