Today, we’re going to look at what it takes to maximize your home’s energy efficiency. By investing in one of the energy-efficient air conditioners available on the market today, you can save money on energy costs while enjoying a cool, comfortable summer. Plus, the best energy-efficient AC units can help reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Before you start shopping for your next heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, let’s take a look at what it takes to have an energy-efficient AC.
Top Features To Look for in Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners
So, what do I recommend looking for in an energy-efficient air conditioning unit?
While each family has different needs, I recommend buying a unit that has a few key qualities that people search for in a new unit. To figure out how to choose an energy-efficient air conditioner, consider some of the following factors.
- SEER2: The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER2) measures how efficiently an air conditioner delivers cooling relative to the electricity it consumes, based on updated testing standards that better reflect real-world conditions. In essence, a high SEER2 rating indicates that the unit is more efficient in how it uses energy.
- ENERGY STAR: An easy way to see if the air conditioner is considered energy efficient or not is by looking for an ENERGY STAR logo. To receive this certification, the unit must meet strict energy-efficiency criteria, including a high SEER2 rating..
- Smart Thermostats: Ideally, I recommend getting a smart or programmable thermostat installed. With a smart thermostat, you can save an average of 8% of your heating and cooling costs each year. Once these thermostats are installed, you can easily program temperature settings for different days or times and make updates using your smartphone.
- AC Capacity: When you get an air conditioner, you don’t want one that is too large or too small for your home because this can cause added wear. Instead, you can calculate the exact capacity your home will need for energy-efficient cooling.
- Variable-Speed Compressors: With variable-speed compressors, the AC is able to match the exact needs of your home. This ensures the optimal run time, saving you money on energy costs.
What Are the Different Types of Air Conditioners?
Before you can buy a new HVAC system in Rancho Cordova or Sacramento, you first need to determine the type you want. When it comes to cooling systems, the general options available are central air conditioners, heat pumps, or ductless mini-splits.
- Central Air Conditioners: A typical central air conditioner is set up to use your home’s ductwork. The central AC cools the air. Then, a network of fans and ducts transmits the air to each room. If you already have existing ductwork, I find that this is a great method for cooling your home.
- Heat Pumps: Heat pumps also use your home’s existing ductwork to move cold air and remove heat. Unlike central air conditioners, heat pumps have the ability to transfer heat in two directions. During the winter, they can move heat from outside into your home. Then, the process can be reversed in the summer so that the heat pump’s refrigerant lines transfer heat outside and cool your home.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: If your home doesn’t have ductwork, you may want to opt for ductless mini-splits. These units can be set up in individual rooms, which means each family member can set their own temperature preferences. Ductless mini-splits are also ideal if you want to have a specific area, like a home office, cooled to a different temperature than the rest of the house.
There are also window ACs and portable AC units, but these are generally only useful for a very small space. If your goal is to maximize your energy efficiency while enjoying a cooler home, I recommend installing a heat pump, central AC, or ductless mini-splits.
The Benefits of Getting an Energy-Efficient AC
As a homeowner, there are a few advantages involved in getting an energy-efficient AC. Besides the cost savings, I recommend getting energy-efficient units so that your home can enjoy better air quality, more eco-friendly cooling, and improved access to potential rebates.
- Enhanced Air Quality: An energy-efficient unit will typically include better humidity control and filtration, which can lead to better air quality inside your home.
- Reduced Impact on the Environment: When you invest in energy-efficient air conditioners, you can use less energy. In turn, this helps to reduce the impact you have on the environment.
- Increased Cost Savings: One of the biggest reasons why homeowners get energy-efficient HVAC units in Sacramento or Rancho Cordova is for the cost savings. By using less energy, you can spend significantly less on your power bill. In fact, an ENERGY STAR-certified unit can use as much as 23% less energy.
- Potential Rebates: When you install the best energy-efficient AC units, you can access rebates and save additional money on your HVAC installation. For example, SMUD offers rebates worth up to $2,000 for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
How To Interpret the EnergyGuide Label
All manufacturers are legally required to place an EnergyGuide label on each HVAC unit they sell. As a homeowner, you can use this label to gain a better understanding of how to choose an energy-efficient air conditioner.
On each label, you’ll find key information that helps you differentiate between two units that look the same. Besides listing the type of AC and important features, it will include the size of the appliance, the AC model, and its make.
Then, the EnergyGuide label will detail how much it estimates you will spend each year on running the air conditioners. This figure is calculated using the same formula, so you can easily compare how much different models will cost.
If the unit has an ENERGY STAR designation, it will be included on the EnergyGuide label. The label will also list the unit’s SEER2. Ideally, you want a unit that has a higher SEER2 because this indicates a better level of energy efficiency.
How To Calculate Your Ideal AC Size
When you start researching HVAC systems in Rancho Cordova & Sacramento, it’s important to remember that you need an AC unit that is the appropriate size for your home. If it is too large, the unit will reach the right temperature too quickly and turn off. Eventually, this frequent cycling can wear on the AC and lead to premature equipment failures. Additionally, oversized units will remove heat faster than they can reduce the humidity, which can lead to a cold, damp home.
Meanwhile, a unit that is too small will also experience premature malfunctions. An overly small unit will stay on for longer than it is designed to, leading to excessive wear.
Once you reach out to one of our HVAC technicians, we will quickly come out to your home and calculate the ideal AC capacity for your square footage. We’ll also take into account the number of windows, how many occupants will be there, the local climate, and your personal temperature preferences.
Most homeowners need a 1-ton to 5-ton unit. A single ton is 12,000 BTUs per hour. There are BTU charts that can give you a basic guideline about the type of tonnage and BTUs you need. Once we measure the space to be cool, we can quickly calculate the number of BTUs you need.
Breaking It Down: Ductless Mini-Splits, Heat Pumps, and Central ACs
When learning how to choose an energy-efficient air conditioner, start by considering the type of cooling system you want. You’ll generally be able to choose between central air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits. Each of these options is available in energy-efficient versions, so the real question is which HVAC system is right for your existing ductwork setup, budget, and cooling needs.
| Feature | Central ACs | Ductless Mini-Splits | Heat Pumps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Units | 1 per home | 1 per room or zone | 1 per home |
| Ductwork Requirements | Ductwork required | No ductwork required | Optional |
| Availability of Energy-Efficiency Options | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heating and Cooling Options | Only cooling | Heating and cooling | Heating and cooling |
Central ACs
While central air conditioners are quiet and energy-efficient, they aren’t the ideal choice for every home. Check out the benefits and drawbacks of central ACs to learn more about what to expect.
Benefits
- These units operate quietly and unobtrusively.
- Central ACs are ideal for your entire home.
- They can be hooked up to your existing ductwork.
- Upfront costs are often lower than the upfront costs of ductless mini-splits.
Drawbacks
- You need to install ductwork, which can lead to energy losses if they aren’t properly maintained.
- Central air conditioners don’t come with zoning controls for individual areas like ductless mini-splits do.
Heat Pumps
Unlike central ACs, heat pumps can also heat your home. This versatility makes them an ideal choice for many homeowners.
Benefits
- Heat pumps can heat and cool your home.
- These units tend to be incredibly durable and often have extended lifespans.
- They are exceptionally energy-efficient devices.
Drawbacks
- Extremely cold climates aren’t ideal for heat pumps. However, Sacramento & Rancho Cordova are warm for this drawback to be an issue here. Additionally, modern heat pumps have technology that lets them perform better in colder temperatures.
- While each circumstance is different, heat pumps often have higher upfront costs than central ACs do.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are known for being incredibly energy efficient. Because they don’t require any ductwork, they can be installed in most spaces.
Benefits
- Since they don’t require ducts, they are fast and easy to install.
- These units are excellent for homes that don’t have existing ductwork.
- The individual zoning allows you to set different temperatures in different rooms of your home.
Drawbacks
- Depending on the design, some of the indoor units can be a bit bulky.
- The units may have higher upfront installation costs.
The Best Tips for Maximizing Your AC’s Energy Efficiency
Once you have installed an energy-efficient air conditioner in your home, the next step is making sure it’s working as effectively as possible. There are a few simple steps you can take to maximize your AC’s energy efficiency.
- Use a programmable thermostat and set the temperature higher when you’re away from home.
- Change your filter regularly so that your AC can function effectively.
- Seal and insulate your home properly to keep the heat out.
- Consider raising your indoor air temperature by a few degrees to save money on your cooling costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Over the years, we’ve helped Sacramento & Rancho Cordova homeowners and business owners find solutions to their HVAC problems. I have found that homeowners tend to ask the following questions the most often.
What is the most energy-efficient type of air conditioner?
I know that ductless mini-splits have a reputation for being the most energy-efficient air conditioner type, but we’ve also installed many central ACs and heat pumps that are highly efficient. To see if your unit is energy efficient or not, check for the ENERGY STAR logo or the SEER2 rating.
What is the most energy-efficient air conditioner mode?
Eco or Energy Saving mode is the most efficient option for most air conditioners. I like using these modes because they allow the AC to modulate the fan speeds and cooling level. As a result, the device can use less power. Smart thermostats are also an excellent investment if you want to get automated temperature adjustments and lower energy bills.
What is the best AC temperature to save on air conditioner bills?
According to the Department of Energy, the best AC temperature is between 75°F and 78°F. The Department of Energy also reports that you can save 10% on your energy bills by increasing your temperature by 7°F to 10°F for just eight hours a day. Thirteen percent of a home’s energy costs are for cooling, so increasing the temperature can significantly impact your power bill.
Finding the Best Energy-Efficient AC Units: A Recap
So, just to recap, there are many energy-efficient heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, and central ACs available today. In my experience, the easiest way to compare energy-efficient air conditioners is by looking at the ENERGY STAR label and calculating the cooling capacity your home needs.
Thanks so much for stopping by. We’ll see you in the next blog post.
Fox Family Heating & Air serves customers throughout Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, and all of Northern California. To schedule HVAC services, call us today!
