The Benefits of Energy-efficient Air Conditioners

Energy-efficient air conditioners have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to reduce energy consumption, save money on utility bills, and positively impact the environment. As we approach the summer months in Arizona, many homeowners are looking to invest in air conditioning systems that are both effective at cooling and energy-efficient. But what makes an air conditioner energy-efficient? Why does it matter? And how does it impact utility bills and performance?

This blog post will discuss the benefits of an energy-efficient air conditioner, what makes an ac unit energy-efficient, and how it can impact both performance and utility bills.

What Makes an AC Energy-efficient?

An air conditioner is considered energy-efficient when it uses less energy to produce the same level of cooling as a less efficient model. This can be achieved through various methods, including:

SEER Rating

The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is an important factor in determining an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. It measures the cooling output of an air conditioner divided by the energy it consumes during the cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the air conditioner. Generally, a SEER rating of 14 or higher is considered energy-efficient.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) sets minimum SEER ratings for air conditioners sold in the United States. The minimum SEER rating is currently 14 for central air conditioners, but models with SEER ratings as high as 26 are available.

Note: Certain products such as package units can still be sold at 14 seer, every other product has to be 2023 complainant and meet the 2023 standards and require a SEER2 rating. Heat pumps and gas system have different Seer2 requirements.

Proper Sizing

To ensure energy efficiency, choose an air conditioner that is properly sized for your space. If your air conditioner is too small, it will have to work harder to cool your space, increasing energy consumption. On the other hand, if your air conditioner is too large, it will cycle on and off more frequently, which can also increase energy consumption.

Insulation

Proper insulation can help keep your home cool by preventing hot air from entering and cool air from escaping. This means your air conditioner won’t have to work as hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Insulation is particularly important in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

Advanced Features

Energy-efficient air conditioners often come with advanced features that help reduce energy consumption. For example, some air conditioners come with programmable thermostats that allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. This means you can program your air conditioner to cool your space only when you are in it, which can save energy.

Why is It Important to Have an Energy-Efficient AC Unit?

An energy-efficient air conditioner can help homeowners save money, reduce your environmental impact, and improve your air indoor air quality.

Reduced Energy Bills

One of the primary reasons why energy efficiency matters is that it can help reduce energy bills. Energy-efficient air conditioners use less energy to cool your space, which means you will spend less on energy bills. Over time, the savings can add up significantly.

Environmental Impact

Another reason why energy efficiency matters is that it can help reduce your carbon footprint. Air conditioners are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, which are one of the primary causes of climate change. By choosing an energy-efficient air conditioner, you can help reduce your impact on the environment.

Long-Term Savings

In addition to reducing energy bills in the short term, energy efficiency can also result in long-term savings. Energy-efficient air conditioners are often more durable and require less maintenance than less efficient models. This means that you will spend less on repairs and replacements over time.

Improved Air Quality

An energy-efficient AC unit operates at a more consistent and controlled pace, which helps to filter out impurities and allergens from the air in your home. This can lead to improved indoor air quality, which benefits people with respiratory problems or allergies.

How Does an Energy-Efficient AC Effect Utility Bills & Performance

Energy efficiency can help you save money on your utility bills. An energy-efficient air conditioner uses less energy to produce the same level of cooling as a less efficient model, which means you’ll reduce your energy bills.

The performance of your air conditioner can also be affected by energy efficiency. An energy-efficient air conditioner will cool your home faster and more efficiently than a less efficient model, which means you’ll enjoy greater comfort and more consistent cooling. This is especially important in Arizona where air conditioning is essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment.

In addition, an energy-efficient air conditioner will typically have a longer lifespan and require fewer repairs than a less efficient model. This means you’ll enjoy better performance and reliability over the unit’s life.

Tips for Choosing an Energy-efficient Air Conditioner

Purchasing an energy-efficient air conditioner is an excellent way to keep your home cool and comfortable while also reducing energy costs and contributing to a healthier environment. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which unit best fits your needs. Here are some tips from our HVAC experts to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an energy-efficient air conditioner:

1. SEER rating: As mentioned above, look for models with a SEER rating of at least 14 or higher, as they are energy-efficient.
2. Size: Choose an air conditioner that is appropriately sized for the room or area you want to cool. A unit that is too small will struggle to keep up with your cooling demand, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and higher energy bills.
3. ENERGY STAR label: Look for air conditioners that have earned the ENERGY STAR label, indicating they meet or exceed energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
4. Programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to set a schedule for when the air conditioner turns on and off, saving energy when you are away from home.
5. Variable-speed compressor: Consider purchasing a unit with a variable-speed compressor that can adjust cooling output to match demand, saving energy and improving comfort.
6. Air filter: Choose a model that allows for easy access and cleaning of air filters, which improves airflow and energy efficiency.
7. Smart technology: Some newer models come with smart technology that automatically adjusts temperature settings based on occupancy or outdoor conditions, increasing energy efficiency.

Chas Roberts offers a range industry-leading air conditioning systems, including Carrier, Lennox, Trane, and Goodman, designed to keep you comfortable while protecting your home against airborne illnesses. Our technicians are dedicated to assisting you in selecting the best HVAC system for your home and budget.

Should You Invest in an Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner?

Investing in an energy-efficient air conditioner is smart for homeowners looking to reduce energy bills, improve indoor air quality, and minimize their environmental impact.

By understanding what makes an AC unit energy-efficient and how it can affect utility bills and performance, you can make an informed decision when choosing a new air conditioning system. With the right SEER rating, proper sizing, insulation, and advanced features, an energy-efficient air conditioner can help keep your home cool and comfortable all summer while saving you money in the long run.

Family-owned and operated Chas Roberts is the largest HVAC company in Arizona and has been in business for over 75 years. Contact us for affordable, reliable service.