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People need their AC units to be energy-efficient because nobody wants to spend too much on their electricity bill at the end of the month. Energy efficiency also benefits the Earth by cutting carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions, especially if your electricity comes from fossil fuels. So the question is, which AC units are energy-efficient?
Energy-efficient AC units must have several specifications and features such as:
- Energy Star Label
The blue Energy Star label indicates that the appliance is energy-efficient. The government backs Energy Star to make it easier for people to choose environmentally friendly appliances. The US Environmental Protection Agency has set strict criteria for an appliance to earn Energy Star certification.
Energy Star appliances generally do not cost more than other appliances. Still, their energy efficiency can help you cut costs on electricity by more than $100 per year.
- High SEER or EER Ratings
Both SEER and EER are parameters that measure how efficiently an AC unit consumes energy. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, while EER stands for energy efficiency ratio. The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) measure both ratios in a controlled environment.
SEER accounts for the starts and stops of the AC unit in various temperatures. Meanwhile, EER ratings are based on the steady state of an AC. Hence, the SEER ratings are more important to consider if you live in an area where summer temperatures go up and down. But if you live in a more tropical climate, EER ratings will help you more. However, both ratings usually follow each other.
- Correct Size
Size does matter when it comes to an AC unit. An undersized unit will fail to reach your ideal indoor temperature, putting all the energy consumed to waste. On the other hand, an oversized unit will consume too much energy and overchill your indoor air. If you are unsure how to determine the right size AC unit for your house, you can ask your dealer.
- Power-Saving Modes
Some AC units provide various modes and features that allow you to adjust how the unit works. Night mode, power-saving modes, and motion sensors are some of the most popular features in an AC because they help to create comfortable temperatures while consuming less energy.
- Proper Maintenance
A lot of people underestimate the importance of regular maintenance of their AC units. Little do they know that even a simple problem like a dirty filter can reduce the machine’s efficiency and cause it to overwork. Your electricity bill will gradually increase, but you might not notice it until a few months later. Changing filters and inspecting the ductwork are important maintenance activities to do regularly. There are other things you can do to make sure your AC unit is in good condition and doesn’t overwork, such as:
- Check the coils and clean them if necessary
- Inspect the ductwork for leaks and repair them
- Keep the area around the AC unit clean and free of debris
- Schedule regular maintenance checkups with a professional HVAC contractor
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your AC unit will function properly for many years. Regular maintenance will also help you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Aside from the AC unit itself, you can still do a few things to increase its energy efficiency. Insulating your house properly and investing in a programmable thermostat could also contribute a lot to keeping your AC consumption to a minimum.
