Did you know that air conditioners account for around 5% of all energy consumed in the U.S.? With all that power being allocated to keep us cool, wouldn’t you want the most energy efficient air conditioner possible in order to help keep your home cool and comfortable this summer?

What Are SEER and EER Ratings For Air Conditioners?

Air Conditioner efficiency is measured by the SEER and EER rating metrics. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio and EER stands for energy efficiency ratio. These metrics were created so consumers would easily be able to figure out how energy efficient their air conditioners and appliances are. The higher the number, the more energy efficient the air conditioner.

Energy Efficient Central Air Advantages

Central Air Conditioners are made up of a central air unit that provides cooling for the entire home through duct work. It’s important to make sure the Central Air Conditioner that you choose has a good SEER or EER rating. According to Energy Star, a government based program that provides certification of consumer products which meet certain standards of energy efficiency, the most efficient Central Air Conditioner you can purchase in 2018 is capable of saving you over 50% compared to non energy efficient models. That’s a 43% savings over the Federal Minimum for efficiency. So in addition to providing comfort, these energy efficient Air Conditioners can also put money back in your wallet.

Energy Efficient Window Air Conditioners

In some cases, it may not be practical to install the duct-work necessary to have a Central Air Conditioning Unit. In these cases you may opt for a Window Air Conditioner, also known as a Room Air Conditioner. These are also rated with EER ratings so you can be sure to get the most energy efficient model. While generally less efficient than Central Air Conditioner, they tend to be cheaper since they only cool where needed, instead of the entire house. These units are recommended for cooling smaller spaces or single rooms and are not recommended to cool an entire house.

Most Energy Efficient Central Air Units of 2018

According to Energy Star (energystar.gov) here are some of the most efficient Central Air Conditioners of 2018:

  • Lennox XC20 Series with iComfort Wi-Fi® Control Lennox Energy Efficient Air Conditioners

    The Lennox Elite XC20 air conditioner features efficiency up to 20 SEER and 14 EER when paired with Lennox communicating indoor equipment and iComfort thermostats. Variable capacity cooling provides outstanding comfort, efficiency, and humidity removal in a fully communicating platform. The inverter driven scroll compressor provides years of reliable performance.  The Lennox XC20 Series has annual energy use of 1,007 – 2,519 kWh depending on the size and has a 35% savings over the Federal Minimum.

  • Lennox XP20 Series with iComfort Wi-Fi® Control  

    The Lennox Elite XP20 heat pump features efficiency up to 20 SEER and 10 HSPF when paired with Lennox communicating indoor equipment and iComfort thermostats. Variable capacity cooling provides outstanding comfort, efficiency, and humidity removal in a fully communicating platform. The inverter driven scroll compressor provides years of reliable performance.  Annual Energy Use varies from 1,864 – 4759 kWh depending on the size and it provides 30% savings over the Federal Minimum.

  • Lennox XP25 Series with iComfort Wi-Fi® Control 

    The Lennox XP25 Heat Pump features efficiency up to 23.5 SEER, and 10.2 HSPF. Precise comfort technology maintains consistent temperatures within 0.5 degrees when paired with Lennox communicating indoor equipment and the Lennox iComfort WiFi thermostat. Variable capacity cooling provides the precise amount of cooling comfort, temperature control, and humidity removal. Annual Energy Use varies from 1,746 – 4,683 depending on the size, and it boast an amazing 31% savings over Federal Minimum.

Regular Maintenance is Essential for Energy Efficiency

No matter the SEER or EER Rating of your Air Conditioner, regular maintenance is essential to keeping your unit performing to it’s peak standards. Failing to keep up with maintenance can cause a wide variety of problems with your Air Conditioner such as leaks, blockage, reduced air flow and even mechanical failure. All of these amount to a reduction in the amount of money you are saving on cooling and can even cost you thousands of dollars if a unit fails. To keep your unit in top condition and performing to peak standards, contact us to have one of our cooling professionals come out and check your unit. They are trained in optimizing cooling systems so that they operate at peak efficiency and keep your house cool all summer.

Energy Efficiency Tax Credits

In 2018 a number of tax credits for residential energy that had expired at the end of 2016 were renewed. As a result Tax Credits for non-business energy property are now available on all purchases made through December 31, 2017. In addition, tax credits for residential renewable energy products have been extended through December 31, 2021.

Products that are eligible for these tax credits are products that have earned the Energy Star certification. These products are independently certified to save energy, save money and help the environment. By using Energy Star certified products you not only save money while keeping your house cool, but you can also save money through the tax credits that you can claim on your Federal Income Tax.

Energy Efficient Air Conditioning Makes Sense

As you can see Energy Efficient Air Conditioners make sense not only because they provide you with precision air cooling and outstanding performance but also can save you up to 50% versus using a non energy efficient Air Conditioner. They will keep your home cool and comfortable during the Summer and help put more money in your wallet. In addition you can claim even more savings with the Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency. It’s the smart choice for homeowners. If you have any questions about Energy Efficient Air Conditioners and which is best for your home, or want a quote on getting one installed, contact Comfort Systems, your local Wichita KS HVAC company. Our experienced, highly trained staff can answer any questions you may have and get your unit running at peak efficiency in no time!  Call us at 316-265-7831.

Posted in Air Conditioning, energy efficiency, Energy Evaluations, Energy Savings, Energy Star, HVAC system, Tax Credits and Rebates