So your air conditioning system is running on its last leg, and it’s time for you to invest in a new AC unit. Where do you start? How do you know your new air conditioner will provide the home comfort and energy savings you’re looking for?
Today’s air conditioners are more energy efficient than ever before, but that doesn’t mean just any new air conditioner is going to lower your monthly utility bills. We’re here to help you understand how to choose an energy efficient air conditioner and decide which type of cooling solution is best for you.
Choosing an Energy Efficient Air Conditioner
Before you start shopping for air conditioners, it helps to know a thing or two about how to identify an energy efficient AC unit. Air conditioners use a metric called seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) to measure energy efficiency. The higher the SEER, the more energy efficient the AC unit is.
Typically, air conditioners that are over 14.5 SEER are considered energy efficient. However, there are models with SEER ratings of 20 or more. As you shop for a new air conditioner with your HVAC specialist, be sure to ask about the SEER of every unit you consider.
Central AC vs. Mini Splits: Which Is Right for You?
Now that you know a little more about how air conditioner efficiency is measured, you have to make a major decision concerning your new system. Will you install an energy efficient central air conditioner, or will you opt for the versatility and efficiency of ductless mini splits?
Central air conditioners
A central air conditioner connects to your home’s existing ductwork to distribute cool, conditioned air throughout your home. As long as your ductwork is clean and airtight, and you choose an energy efficient central AC unit, central air conditioning can be an excellent, energy saving option for your home.
Ductless mini splits
Ductless mini splits, also known as ductless heat pumps, eliminate the need for ductwork and are instead installed directly in the rooms they condition on a wall, floor, or ceiling. These cooling units (which also provide heating) are extremely efficient and allow you to create a zoned home comfort solution. Ductless mini splits by Mitsubishi Electric are a great option for homeowners who want more control over their indoor comfort or who have areas in their home where ductwork is inaccessible.
Ultimately, an HVAC specialist can help you decide which cooling option is best for you and your family — or even if a combination of the two is best.
Let Kearney HVAC Design Your Home Cooling Solution
At Kearney HVAC, we’re here to help you determine which cooling solution will provide you exactly the home comfort and utility bill savings you’re looking for. Once we design the right solution for you using high quality products like Bryant central air conditioners and Mitsubishi Electric mini split heat pumps, we’ll provide a top notch AC installation. High quality installation is essential for ensuring a long lasting AC system and helping you get the most from your AC investment.
