Energy Efficiency & Air Conditioners

You’re passionate about reducing your carbon footprint and protecting the planet, but you love your AC, especially when the heat and humidity of summer are weighing you down. Is it possible to have your cake and eat it too? H&H has all the tips you need to live an energy-efficient lifestyle and remain comfortable year-round…

First Things First: Choosing An Efficient Cooling System

If your air conditioner is more than 10-years old, upgrading to a newer, more energy efficient systemcan reduce energy costs and your carbon footprint 20-40%. When shopping for a system, ensure efficiency by…

• Shopping by SEER
  SEER ratings make shopping for an AC system with superior efficiency simpler, as do Energy Star ratings for heating and cooling systems. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy the system consumes. Systems 10+ years old may be 10 SEER (or below). The minimum allowed today by law is 14 SEER. To ensure energy savings, a system with a rating above 16 SEER is preferable. SEER ratings over 20 are not uncommon in traditional split and packaged systems. In ductless systems, you can find SEER ratings over 25! Look for the Energy Star logo for systems offering high-efficiency features and superior performance.
• Opting for Energy Saving Features
  Opting for a system with a variable speed blower reduces energy consumption, as do ‘fan only’ switches, which can provide natural cooling.
• Purchasing the Right Size System
  Heating and air conditioning units must be properly sized to ensure optimal performance. A system that’s too small or large for your home reduce efficiency by 30%, inflating your utility bills, and putting stress on the system that shortens its lifespan. An experienced, professional HVAC contractor can perform load calculations, considering your home’s size, layout, thermal envelope, and more to help you determine the right size system to meet your needs.
• Ensuring an Energy Star Quality Installation
  A quality installation ensures performance, and should also include properly sealed ductwork, verified optimal system operation and thermostat function, and airflow optimized for consistent temperatures throughout your home.

Operational Tips For Eking Extra Efficiency From Your Air Conditioner

How you use and maintain your AC can also impact energy use. Maximize efficiency with:

• Smart Thermostats
  Pairing your system with one of today’s smart programmable thermostats can help you further control energy use, offering precise temperature control and altering temperatures when your home is not in use.
• Regular Filter Changes
  Dusty, clogged filters can seriously impact performance, forcing your system to work harder to move air. Keep air filters for your home air conditioner on hand, and change them regularly, at least every 2-3 months.
• Regular Professional Maintenance
  Air filter disgusting? Your coils may be dirty too. A properly charged, clean system is integral to ensuring top performance and ultimately energy savings, making regular professional maintenance before cooling season a must.

Knowledgeable, trustworthy air conditioning companies that are committed to protecting the environment should be a key part of your HVAC efficiency goals. Do you have one in your pocket? H&H Heating & Cooling is committed to the community, and the environment. Learn more about our stellar services today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/energy-efficiency-air-conditioners/