As temperatures reach triple digits, it becomes next to impossible to sit comfortably in your home without turning your AC unit to the max. That’s the only way to get some relief from the scorching heat. Unfortunately, for many households, this means bracing for higher energy bills throughout the summer months if you aren’t using energy-efficient AC.
The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way. There are many ways to save this summer, especially when you have an energy-efficient air conditioner.
Essential Features of Energy-Efficient ACs
Air conditioners have come a long way since their invention. They’ve never been more effective and efficient, but you can still come across a few bad apples in a bunch. So, it’s critical to choose your AC system wisely. To do that, you’ll need to scrutinize its essential features:
- EER/SEER rating
Every modern AC will have two ratings – Energy Efficiency Rating (EEC) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). EER determines an AC’s efficiency under perfect conditions (95℉, 50% humidity), while SEER determines the efficiency throughout the whole season (with temperatures ranging from 65℉ to 104℉).
A higher rating means better energy efficiency and more significant savings. EER goes up to 12, with any rating over eight considered as above average. On the other hand, SEER goes up to 21, with any rating above 14.5 regarded as above average.
- ENERGY STAR certified
ENERGY STAR is a government program that promotes energy efficiency. For any appliance to receive an ENERGY STAR certification, it will need to meet or exceed high standards and perform better than standard models. If your AC has the blue ENERGY STAR certificate, you can rest assured that it’s an energy-efficient solution that keeps your utilities lower.
- Two-stage cooling
An AC with two-stage cooling will use compressors that have high and low cooling outputs. When the outside temperatures are hotter, your AC will employ the high setting to keep your home comfortable. When temperatures are milder, the AC will use the low setting, thus consuming less energy and keeping your utility bills in check.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to look into the AC’s energy-saving settings that will automatically turn off the compressors and fans as soon as your home reaches the desired temperature.
Pay Attention to the AC Size
Getting an air conditioning system that’s either too big or too small will have a negative impact on your energy bills and comfort levels.
An AC that’s too small will need to run constantly to keep your home as cool as possible. You won’t be able to turn it off during the night, nor will you benefit from any energy-efficient features like two-stage cooling. Ultimately, your energy bills will be much higher.
Getting an AC that’s too big isn’t a great idea, either, even though it may seem like it would work better. Air conditioners work by cooling the air (thus lowering the temperature) and eliminating high humidity levels.
In most instances, a larger AC will quickly lower the temperature in your home, but it won’t be able to remove the humidity as fast, so you’ll end up with uncomfortable, damp air.
Fortunately, there are many AC BTU calculators you can use to determine the right AC size for your home.
Save More on Energy With a No-Cost Home Assessment
Energy-efficient air conditioners can keep you comfortable during the hot summer months while keeping your wallet happy.
If you want to look for other ways to reduce your energy costs further, sign up for Neeeco’s no-cost virtual home energy assessment. Through our partnership with Mass Save®, we could help you find out whether you qualify for rebates and incentives that can supercharge your savings.
Get your home ready for summer! Call (781) 309-7540 or contact us to schedule a no-cost home energy assessment.