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Having an energy-efficient home isn’t merely a trend. An energy-efficient home is better for both the environment and your budget. If, for example, you upgrade to a more energy-efficient air conditioner, you can see lower monthly bills and even a tax rebate. The first step, though, is to determine whether your current air conditioner is energy efficient.
Check the SEER Ratings
The SEER, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, rating of your air conditioner is important to know. The highest possible SEER rating is 25, but many units do not reach that number. A SEER rating of 17 or higher typically indicates optimal energy efficiency. If your unit’s SEER rating is below 14.5, you may be wasting energy. To locate the unit’s SEER rating, check the yellow manufacturer’s label. You should see the words “Energy Guide” with the rating listed below. If for some reason this label is lost, contact your manufacturer.
Look for an Energy Star Rating
You should also check to see if your unit is rated highly by Energy Star. Typically, the highest Energy Star ratings go to air conditioners that have a SEER rating of 14.5 or more. This label is also yellow and located on the external part of the air conditioner unit.
Assess the Age
A newer air conditioner is likely to be more energy efficient than an older model. Keep in mind that air conditioners generally need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, so a unit that’s close to being a decade or older is probably wasting energy. However, keep in mind that a young age does not necessarily mean that the air conditioner is energy efficient. Age is only one of the factors that contributes to a unit’s efficiency.
Look at the Filters
If you haven’t had the air conditioner’s filters changed out in some time, the unit is likely not running at its maximum energy efficiency. A filter clogged with dirt and debris is going to put more stress on the system, thereby using more energy. In general, you should change your air conditioner’s filters at least once every three months. However, speak with one of our team members at On Time Experts about the right maintenance plan for your home’s system.
Consider Special Features
Take into account whether your air conditioner has any special features that make the system more energy efficient by nature. For example, smart systems are typically more efficient than other models. Smart systems are generally designed to conserve energy. Also, since you have control of your home’s air conditioner no matter where you go, you can adjust the temperature remotely. If you accidentally left the air conditioner at a very low temperature before leaving the house, you can simply raise the temperature from your phone. You should also take into account whether the air conditioner has a programmable thermostat. A unit without a programmable thermostat will almost undoubtedly use more energy than an air conditioner that has this feature.
Determine Zone-Cooling Status
If your home has zone cooling, energy efficiency is likely a system priority. With zone cooling, you don’t need to lower the temperature to the same degree throughout the entire dwelling. Instead, you can cool down only those areas in which you’re currently spending time. If you have zone cooling already but feel as though your bills are still high, speak with one of our team members about how to make more efficient use of the system.
Record System Service
Getting your air conditioner regularly maintained is an important part of good home ownership. However, constantly having to schedule system service could be indicative of problems. The need to regularly book service appointments for your home’s system may be a sign that the unit isn’t energy efficient.
Note Difficulties in Starting
An air conditioner that struggles to start up is likely consuming excess energy. In other words, the system, in its battle to turn on, is using up more energy. Look out for any indications that the air conditioner is having difficulty turning on, such as a lack of cool air or strange noises.
Observe Any System Malfunctioning
Any system malfunction could be a sign that the unit is consuming too much energy. Examples of problems that could arise with an air conditioner include unusual noises when running, leaking, strange smells, and an inability to cool down the house. Keep in mind that a malfunctioning air conditioner can also be dangerous. Schedule an appointment for service right away.
Be Aware of Hot Spots
Uneven cooling is another sign of an air conditioner that isn’t energy efficient. The unit might be using up excess energy in its struggle to keep up with the home’s demands. You might notice that a particular room in the house doesn’t get as cool as the rest of the zone, or you may realize that a specific spot in one room is warmer than the rest of the space.
Review Your Energy Bills
You can also compare your current energy bills with previous ones to check for significant increases in costs. Keep in mind that bills do tend to rise over time, so a minor increase might not necessarily be cause for concern. On the other hand, if you see that your bills have wildly spiked, your home’s system may no longer be considered energy efficient.
Schedule an Inspection
The best way to determine the exact energy efficiency of your unit is to schedule an inspection. One of our team members can assess your home’s unit and let you know about its advantages and disadvantages in terms of energy efficiency. This strategy is also a smart way to learn about more energy-efficient features. Our team can provide customized recommendations to lower your energy bills.
You don’t have to guess whether your home’s air conditioner is energy efficient. Here at On Time Experts, with locations in Garland, Dallas, and McKinney, we can assess your system. That assessment will inform you about the air conditioner’s current energy-efficient capabilities as well as upgrades that can lower your monthly bills. We also offer a full array of heating and cooling services.
Whether your system needs repair or maintenance, we’re here to help. We provide plumbing services as well, including sewer pipe repair and replacement in addition to work on tankless water heaters and sump pumps. To save even more money, ask about our special offers, such as current coupons, financing plans, and discounts for first responders.
Our services are available to many communities in the Garland and Dallas Fort Worth area. For example, we serve Farmers Branch, Flower Mound, and University Park. We pride ourselves on offering upfront pricing and quality service. Make sure to check out the frequently asked questions sections of our website. Whether you have more questions or you want to book an appointment to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient, contact On Time Experts today for air conditioning solutions.
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