Energy-efficient air conditioning units can make a big difference — not just in terms of keeping you and your family members nice and cool when it’s hot outside, but in terms of saving the planet, too.
If you’re planning on upgrading your air conditioning unit, you shouldn’t wait until it’s already sweltering hot outside. You should also consider getting an energy-efficient AC unit. Let’s talk about why below!
Why Energy Efficiency Matters
There are a number of reasons why energy efficiency matters. It’s not something that a lot of people think about, but it’s really something that everyone should take into consideration — especially in this day and age. Here are some reasons why having an energy-efficient AC unit makes a huge difference:
● Cost Savings: First things first, let’s talk about your wallet. Energy-efficient AC units can significantly lower your utility bills. Older units can be real energy hogs — they use up a lot of electricity and can, unfortunately, send your bills through the roof. Newer, efficient models use less power to cool your home, which means more money stays in your pocket each month.
● Environmental Impact: Next up, the planet. Energy-efficient air conditioners use less electricity, which reduces the demand on power plants and cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions. By upgrading your AC unit, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment. It’s a win-win situation.
● Improved Home Comfort: Now, let’s talk comfort. Energy-efficient units aren’t just about saving money and the environment. They also keep your home more comfortable. These units often come with advanced features that make maintaining a more consistent temperature and improving indoor air quality easier.
Energy-Efficient Features to Look For
When shopping for an energy-efficient AC unit, there are some specific features you’ll want to keep an eye out for:
● SEER Rating: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the efficiency of your AC unit. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. Look for units with a SEER rating of 16 or higher.
● Variable Speed Fans: These fans adjust their speed to match the cooling needs of your home. They ensure that temperatures remain consistent, and they don’t use nearly as much energy as more traditional AC units.
● Smart Thermostats: Smart thermostats are great because they allow you to control your AC remotely. This means that you can set schedules based on when you want the AC to run. You’ll be able to control how much energy you’re using, even when you’re not home.
How to Keep Your AC Unit Running Efficiently
On occasion, people upgrade to an energy-efficient AC system only to find that their utility bills are still quite high. If this has happened to you, you might be wondering if there’s even a point in upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioning unit. There are actually a few reasons why your energy-efficient unit might not be working as well as you want it to, though.
Frankly, how well your AC unit is working will depend on how often you get maintenance checks done, how often you replace the air filters, and several other factors. We’ll be taking a closer look at some things you can do to keep your AC unit running efficiently shortly, so don’t worry.
In addition to buying an air conditioning unit with a high efficiency rating, there are several things you can do to help your AC unit work even better. Keep the following tips in mind, and you’ll be able to lower your cooling costs, reduce the need for frequent repairs, and make your unit last longer.
● Check Your Air Ducts: If your air ducts have gaps or leaks in them, cool air can escape before it circulates throughout your home. This makes your AC work harder than it needs to. Inspect your air ducts and clean them regularly. This will be the best way to make sure that all of the cool air gets where it’s supposed to go.
● Keep Up with Regular Maintenance: Just like your car, your air conditioner needs regular check-ups and maintenance. It’s a good idea to have your AC serviced once a year to keep it running efficiently. It’s ideal to get it serviced before it starts getting hot outside.
● Install a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to control the temperature in your home at different times of the day. For example, you can set it
to a higher temperature when you’re not home and lower it before you get back. This will help you save a lot of money in the long run, too.
● Replace Air Filters: During the hottest months of the year, your AC filters can get dirty and clogged up pretty quickly. Dirty filters make your AC work harder and less efficiently. It’s recommended to replace your air filters every 30-60 days during the summer months. This might reduce some of your allergy symptoms, too, if that happens to be something you struggle with.
● Clear Your Vents: Make sure the vents in your home are not blocked by furniture or anything else. This will allow the cool air from your AC system to flow freely into your home. And, hey — it’s a great excuse to do some redecorating!
Final Thoughts
Switching to an energy-efficient AC unit is a super smart move for any homeowner in Illinois or Pennsylvania. The cost savings, environmental benefits, and improved home comfort are well worth the investment. If you’re thinking about upgrading your AC unit, you should keep an eye out for units with high SEER ratings, variable speed fans, and smart thermostats.
If you’re ready to make the switch, your local HVAC professionals will be happy to help. They’ll be able to assist you in finding the best air conditioning unit for your home. They’ll also make sure that it’s installed correctly the first time, which is always a plus!
Don’t wait until your AC unit breaks down before replacing or upgrading it. The sooner you’re able to upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioning unit, the better!