As you prepare to head into another hot summer season, you may be concerned with the increase in utility bills for your air conditioning system. Finding a good blend of staying comfortable while not exceeding your monthly budget can be challenging if you still rely on an older, inefficient air conditioner. In fact, as they reach the end of their lifespan, cooling systems can become 50% less efficient than the day you purchased them. While upgrading to a new system comes with an expensive initial investment, this cost is often defrayed by lower operating costs and spending less on repair bills.
Efficiency Ratings
All air conditioners have a SEER or SEER2 rating. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which measures the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning system over an entire cooling season.
SEER2 is an updated version of the SEER standard that was introduced to reflect real-world conditions better. While SEER ratings were based on ideal laboratory settings, SEER2 uses more rigorous testing procedures that account for external static pressure and airflow resistance in ductwork. These factors better reflect how an air conditioner will perform once installed in your home. As a result, SEER2 ratings are typically lower than their SEER counterparts for the same unit, even though the equipment’s efficiency hasn’t changed.
The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the air conditioner is. AC systems made just 10 to 15 years ago usually have a SEER rating of around 8 to 10. The bare minimum SEER2 rating for modern-day central air conditioners is 13.4 in northern states and 14.3 in southern states. Air conditioners can come in various ratings ranging from these bare minimums up to 25 or more. There’s no doubt that a new air conditioning system will be more efficient than your outdated model and save on monthly utility bills.
Low, Mid, and High-Efficiency Models
Air conditioners are often grouped into three general categories based on energy efficiency: low, mid, and high-efficiency models. Low-efficiency models meet the minimum SEER2 standards. These units tend to have the lowest upfront cost but offer limited energy savings in the long run.
Mid-efficiency models typically fall between 15 and 17 SEER2. They strike a good balance between affordability and performance, making them a popular choice for many homeowners who want improved energy efficiency without a significant increase in installation costs.
High-efficiency models, which are rated 18 SEER2 and higher, come with a higher initial price tag but deliver the most substantial long-term savings on energy bills. These systems are also more likely to qualify for energy rebates or incentives, making them a smart investment for those planning to stay in their homes for several years.
Frequent Filter Changes
Apart from purchasing a new air conditioner for your home, there are many things you can do to ensure optimal efficiency throughout the entire summer season. One of the most important steps is to change your HVAC filter regularly. A good rule of thumb is to pull the filter out and visually check it at least once a month. Always have at least one extra filter on hand so that you can do a replacement whenever it’s necessary. You never want to leave a dirty filter in your air conditioner as it will put excessive strain on the system’s components and drastically reduce its operating efficiency.
Annual Maintenance Service
Annual professional maintenance is also essential for keeping your system running efficiently. This should be done every year in the early spring to prepare your air conditioner for the upcoming summer weather. Professional service includes cleaning internal components, tightening electrical connections, and other tasks that increase your cooling system’s efficiency.
Block Out Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight streaming into your home can be one of the biggest challenges to maintaining indoor comfort and keeping your air conditioner from working overtime. Sunlight can raise your indoor temperature by 10 degrees or more, forcing your AC to run longer and more frequently. Blocking direct sunlight with blinds, curtains, or other window treatments is a simple way to prevent this strain. Keeping the sun out during the hottest parts of the day can improve energy efficiency and reduce wear on your cooling system.
Contact Your Local Professionals
Hicken Air provides reliable AC installation services to the Gilbert, AZ community. We can also help with all your air conditioner replacement, maintenance, and repair needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for HVAC maintenance with one of our experienced technicians.
971 N Gilbert Rd, Suite #203