Is an Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner Worth It?
What you need to know about energy efficiency when buying a new air conditioner.
The pros and cons of each cooling option to help you decide between the two.
Published July 13, 2022
An air conditioner might not be your only option when it comes to cooling your home. A heat pump is another alternative you could consider. Just like an AC, a heat pump could also help you stay cool during summer. However, some differences between the two, as well as pros and cons, may make one a better choice for your needs.
While an air conditioner and a heat pump could cool your home, only the heat pump could heat your home. This feature might be especially important if you live in a colder area.
When it’s time to replace your old air conditioner, the new cooling appliance you buy - whether it’s an AC or heat pump - may be more energy efficient than your current appliance.
If you’ve had your current cooling appliance for over 15 years, there’s a possibility that the appliance might pre-date the energy efficiency requirements introduced in 2006. These requirements outline that new air conditioners and heat pumps need a minimum SEER rating of 13 instead of the previous rating of 10.
Since then, SEER ratings have been further adjusted to factor in where you live:
What’s a SEER rating? SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it is an indicator of the appliance’s energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the air conditioner or heat pump.
Air conditioners and heat pumps with the same SEER rating are equally energy-efficient as they use the same basic technology to cool your home. For instance, a 15 SEER air conditioner is just as energy efficient as a 15 SEER heat pump. However, if you’re interested in buying a heat pump, you may also want to look at the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The current minimum HSPF rating required is 8.2, but you may choose a higher rating for better performance. Similar to SEER, the higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heat pump is to help keep your home warm.
Air conditioners are a common cooling appliance used in the U.S. and there are many reasons that may help with their popularity.
Pros:
Cons:
Heat pumps can be versatile, which may be helping them to gain traction with homeowners in the US.
Pros:
Cons:
Let a Local Home Pro HVAC specialist help with your cooling needs. Get your no-obligation, free consultation today to help you decide what’s right for your home and your family.
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