An efficient HVAC system benefits you in two key ways. First, it can reduce the pollution you're contributing to the environment. Second, it can decrease the amount of money you're spending on energy costs each month. It's a win-win for the planet as well as for your pocket! You may have heard about the importance of investing in an energy-efficient air conditioner and that these systems could be some of the best air conditioning units to consider purchasing. However, it can be challenging to know what to look for if you're trying to determine if an HVAC system is energy efficient. Fortunately, a few qualities can help you understand whether you already have an energy-efficient HVAC system or what to look for if you're purchasing a new one. Therefore, here are a few tips on what makes an HVAC system efficient and what characteristics to consider: You Have a Newer System How old is your HVAC system? According to the United States Department of Energy, the typical HVAC system lasts 15 to 20 years. If you live in a climate where you have to use the system more than usual, needing to cool down your home during an extended summer could shorten its lifetime. If your HVAC system is approaching this age, its efficiency has likely decreased. Over time, like any other mechanical system, wear and tear can occur. Meaning even the best air conditioning units may fall in their effectiveness. If your system is less than ten years old, you likely have an energy-efficient air conditioner. The HVAC System Has Had Routine Maintenance If you've skipped quite a few air filter cleanouts or haven't replaced any worn parts, your air conditioner could be running on reduced efficiency. Old, worn-out parts make your HVAC system work harder, causing an uptick in energy use and your bill. A unit that has had routine maintenance and undergone necessary repairs is more likely to be energy-efficient than one that hasn't. An Excellent Air Conditioner Rating Did you know that HVAC systems receive ratings? Your unit was likely given a rating called the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER); this number measures how efficiently an AC unit converts electricity into cooling power. The higher your number, the more efficient your AC unit is. According to the United States Department of Energy, your AC unit needs to have a rating of 13 or above. If it doesn't, you may want to invest in another option with a better rating. Renewable Energy Sources are Used for Cooling and Heating Heating and cooling materials can produce a lot of waste that negatively impacts the environment. Fortunately, some savvy and environmentally-conscious HVAC designers have figured out how to heat and cool homes without investing in toxic chemicals. For example, a system may leverage moisture from cool air to assist on hotter days. Not only is this protecting the planet, but these energy-efficient heating and cooling methods could also go easy on your wallet. Optimal Installation Is your HVAC system installed in a location that can adequately cool and warm your home without having to put the settings on the highest output? Placement can also be a contributor to an energy-efficient air conditioner. Optimal HVAC placement in your home will depend on many factors that a professional can help walk you through. At Comfort Air, we want to help you find the best HVAC system for your needs and ensure expert installation. Whether you're looking to leave a positive mark on the environment or save money on energy bills, our team is ready to help with all your HVAC needs. Give us a call at (404) 296-6190 to speak with us about how we can help.
