Guide to Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners & HVAC Systems (2025)

3 Benefits of an Energy-Efficient AC

Energy-efficient air conditioning systems not only keep your home comfortable, but they also offer numerous long-term advantages, including cost savings, environmental benefits, and enhanced air quality. Investing in an energy-efficient AC can provide a healthier, more sustainable, and budget-friendly cooling solution for your home.

1. Cost Savings

Energy-efficient air conditioners use less electricity to cool your home, which can result in lower monthly heating and cooling bills. Additionally, because these systems experience less strain, they typically have a longer lifespan and require fewer repairs, reducing overall AC maintenance costs. Over time, the initial investment in an energy-efficient model can pays off through cost savings.

2. Environmental Benefits

By consuming less energy, energy-efficient AC systems help lower your carbon footprint, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to environmental sustainability. These systems also tend to use refrigerants that are more eco-friendly, helping minimize the harmful impact on the ozone layer compared to older, less efficient units.

3. Better Air Quality

Energy-efficient air conditioners often come with improved filtration and humidity control, ensuring consistent indoor air quality. These systems can reduce allergens, mold, and dust, leading to a healthier living environment. Additionally, many energy-efficient models operate more quietly, which can improve your home's overall comfort by minimizing noise distractions.

Energy Efficiency Defined

Energy efficiency in air conditioners refers to how effectively a unit uses energy to provide cooling without excessive energy consumption. When comparing central AC units, it’s important to look for specific efficiency ratings that indicate how well a unit performs while minimizing energy use. Key metrics, like Energy Star ratings, SEER2, and EER2, can help you determine which models offer the best value in terms of energy savings and performance. Understanding these ratings can guide homeowners in selecting the most efficient AC systems for their needs.

ENERGY STAR^®

ENERGY STAR® is a certification awarded to air conditioners that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Units with this certification use less energy than non-certified models, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to reduce their heating and cooling bills while benefiting from reliable performance.

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER2)

The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER2) measures the efficiency of an air conditioner by comparing its cooling capacity (BTUs) to its energy consumption (watts) under specific temperature conditions. The higher the EER2, the more efficient the unit. For more details on how this is calculated and why it matters, visit our EER2 guide.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2)

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) measures how efficiently an air conditioner operates over the course of a typical cooling season, factoring in variations in temperature and operational conditions. Higher SEER2 ratings mean better overall energy efficiency. Learn more about the SEER2 rating and its importance by visiting our SEER2 guide.

How To Choose an Energy-Efficient Air Conditioner

When shopping for the most energy-efficient air conditioning unit, it's important to consider factors such as the size of your home, the climate in your area, and your maintenance preferences. An energy-efficient air conditioning system should meet both your cooling needs and your long-term energy savings goals. Understanding the following factors will help ensure you select the right unit for your home’s needs.

• Home Size: The size of your home is one of the most important factors in selecting an energy-efficient air conditioning unit. Larger homes will require a higher tonnage unit, while smaller homes can benefit from a smaller tonnage unit that still offers efficient performance.
• Climate: The climate in your area plays a significant role in how much you’ll rely on your AC. If you live in a region with hot, humid summers, choosing a system with a higher SEER2 or EER2 rating will ensure it can handle the demand while maintaining efficiency.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your system running efficiently. Some models require more frequent servicing, so it’s important to choose a system that fits your ability to schedule maintenance.
• Budget: While energy-efficient air conditioning units can be more expensive upfront, they can offer savings over time through reduced heating and cooling bills. Consider your initial investment in relation to the long-term savings to ensure the unit fits within your budget.

How to Improve the Efficiency of Your A/C

Improving the efficiency of your air conditioning unit can significantly lower your cooling costs and extend the lifespan of your system. By performing regular maintenance, optimizing your home environment, and utilizing modern technology, you can help ensure that your AC runs at its best, providing comfort without excessive energy consumption.

1. Perform Regular Maintenance

Proper maintenance is essential for maintaining the energy efficiency of your central air conditioning system. Regular servicing will keep the system running smoothly and help prevent potential issues that could increase energy consumption.

• Replace Air Filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder, increasing energy costs. Check and replace filters regularly, aiming for every 1-3 months.
• Clean Condenser Unit: A clean outdoor condenser unit allows the AC to cool more efficiently, preventing it from becoming overworked.
• Vacuum Vents: Ensure vents are free of dust and debris to allow for optimal airflow throughout the system.
• Check and Seal Ducts: Leaky ducts can cause significant energy loss. Inspect and seal any leaks to prevent wasted energy.

2. Optimize Your Home Environment

Optimizing your home’s environment can significantly reduce the strain on your AC, helping it maintain efficiency without needing to work harder. By making a few adjustments, you can create a more energy-efficient living space.

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: To keep your home comfortable, make sure vents are open and not blocked.
• Close Curtains and Blinds: During the hottest parts of the day, close curtains and blinds to block sunlight and reduce heat buildup.
• Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate air, making you feel cooler and reducing the need for AC to work as hard.
• Close Off Unused Rooms: To maintain high efficiency, close the door and vents of unused rooms to prevent them from being cooled unnecessarily.
• Use Natural Ventilation: Open windows in the evening or early morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures.
• Limit Heat-Producing Appliances: Avoid using heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers during peak hours to reduce the load on your AC.
• Plant Trees: Planting trees around your home can provide shade, reduce the heat load on your AC, and help to lower your cooling bills.

3. Invest in a Smart Thermostat

Installing a smart thermostat is an affordable way to improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system, even in older units. Smart thermostats can automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule, reducing unnecessary cooling and optimizing energy use. For more information, check out our smart thermostat page.

Energy Efficiency Rebates and Tax Credits

Many federal, local, and Carrier-sponsored programs offer rebates and tax credits to help homeowners save on the purchase of energy-efficient air conditioning systems. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of purchasing and installing an energy-efficient air conditioning unit, making it more affordable to upgrade your home’s cooling system.