In the sweltering summer months, a high-quality air conditioner is a necessity. But when you’re shopping for one, you’ll want to make sure that it’s energy efficient. Not only will this help reduce energy bills, but it will also positively impact the environment. The key to finding an energy-efficient air conditioner is to look for the right features. Here are some of them:
1. SEER Rating
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures an air conditioner’s overall efficiency. It is calculated by dividing the total cooling output of an air conditioner into British Thermal Units (BTUs) by its total electric energy input in watts. A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient air conditioner, which will use less energy to cool your home.
2. ENERGY STAR Certification
The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) run a program called ENERGY STAR. This certification ensures that products meet specific energy efficiency standards designed to help consumers conserve energy and reduce their environmental impact. Look for an AC unit certified with the ENERGY STAR label. This ensures that the product meets the highest energy efficiency standard.
3. Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can maximize the performance of your air conditioner. It allows you to customize the temperature settings to your exact preferences and schedule when the AC unit should turn on and off. This will help you save energy when it’s not necessary to have the air conditioner running and maintain comfortable temperatures in your home.
4. Variable-Speed Compressor
Air conditioners with a variable-speed compressor are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to maximize energy efficiency. With this feature, the unit automatically adjusts its speed to match the cooling demands of the space, leading to reduced energy consumption.
In addition, this compressor reduces noise levels, as the compressor runs at lower speeds when the temperature does not need to be adjusted as much. Furthermore, it helps to maintain a more consistent temperature, which can further improve energy savings.
5. Zone Control
Zone control is an energy-efficient feature that lets you customize the temperature and humidity of different areas in your home. It allows you to reduce energy waste and save money on your energy bill by setting different temperatures for each zone and quickly adjusting the temperature depending on the time of day or season. Additionally, this feature allows you to control the humidity levels in your home, making it easier to maintain a comfortable environment.
6. Smart Technology
In this day and age, buying an energy-saving air conditioner with smart technology is a must. With this kind of technology, you can control the AC unit from any device with an internet connection and set it on or off at certain times. Plus, energy monitoring provides detailed information about your energy consumption, so you can make more informed decisions about your energy usage and identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
There are many features to consider when looking for an energy-efficient air conditioner. The ones mentioned earlier can help you to find an energy-efficient unit that provides the best performance and helps reduce your energy bill in the long run. By searching and comparing AC units, you can find the best one that suits your needs.
Turn to AutumnAir if you need help installing your newly purchased air conditioner. You can also count on us for emergency AC repairs and air duct cleaning in Birmingham, AL. Contact us to schedule a service with an HVAC technician.