FAQS about high efficiency air conditioners
How long will my new air conditioner last?
Any air conditioner that’s well-maintained can last 15-20 years, but high efficiency units have the potential to last longer than conventional units because of their ability to run the compressor and blower fan at reduced power stages, rather than just on or off.
However, there are other variables that determine air conditioner life, such as what temperatures you like your home to be, your local climate, the condenser’s exposure to the elements and more.
What ratings should I look for on energy efficient ACs?
There are two measures to consider:
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is an energy rating between 13 (the federally mandated minimum, with 14 the minimum in southern states) and 25 calculated by dividing the average cooling output of a central air conditioner by the average energy used during that length of time (i.e. season). The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.
- CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio) has largely replaced the older EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating to measure how much energy a window/room air conditioner uses, both while operating under a range of outdoor temperatures and while in standby mode. Most units available today range from 9.8 to 15. As with SEER ratings, a higher CEER score means a more efficient air conditioner.
Purchasing a unit with a higher SEER or CEER may mean spending quite a bit more initially, although the resultant energy savings will accrue faster.
How often does my AC need to be serviced?
One service per year, scheduled before the weather turns too hot, is recommended to keep your high efficiency air conditioner running smoothly. HSP offers an affordable maintenance plan – see below for details.
How can I make my AC unit more energy efficient?
Apart from upgrading to a more efficient model and having annual maintenance performed, you can make your AC more efficient by easing the burden on it. This can be done by:
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ensuring your insulation and door and window sealing are solid
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programming your thermostat to increase during hours no one is home
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“supercooling” your home, or turning the thermostat down very low during low-cost electricity hours, then turning it up to around 80 degrees during peak heat and letting the cooled air see you through the hot hours.
Bundle your furnace and AC system
When it comes to replacing a furnace, you can stack benefits by replacing your air conditioner at the same time. This can make for lower per-item installation expenses, as well as give you a matched system that was designed to work together for maximum efficiency. And when you purchase your new appliance from HSP, we’ll make sure to pass along any rebates or special offers.
Explore furnace and AC bundling
AC maintenance tune-ups from HSP
We recommend servicing your central AC unit at least once per year to replace the filter, to ensure healthy refrigerant levels, proper air flow and sound electrical connections and to check for leaks or bulging in the run capacitor. Signing up for our Maintenance Plan secures for you an AC tune-up, as well as tune-ups for other home systems, between May and August to get your home ready for the summer.
See how HSP maintenance works
Trusted local professionals
The air conditioner is a home’s biggest appliance, and on hot days it can feel like the most crucial one, as well. So trust your AC to Home Service Plus, Minnesota's largest provider of home appliance repair, replacement and maintenance.
HSP continues to turn Minnesotans into satisfied customers with our industry-leading warranties, highly trained and friendly technicians and premium-quality work.
Request in-home consultation
or call 612-342-4610