Should You Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC?
The industry measures cooling efficiency with the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER2). The Department of Energy (DOE) sets regional SEER2 minimums for manufacturers. Brands also make ACs that outperform those baselines, and those are the high-efficiency models. Let’s explore whether it’s best to choose a standard model or a high-efficiency alternative. Environmental Impact Air conditioning is the number one contributor to the average U.S. household’s annual energy consumption. Choosing a high-efficiency AC will lower your household’s carbon footprint, which is better for the environment. Consider that selecting a 25 SEER2 system over a typical 13 SEER2 AC can reduce energy use by 60% or more. If cost isn’t a factor, you absolutely should choose a high-efficiency AC. That said, budget is a factor for most homeowners. Initial Cost High-efficiency models cost more because they have more sophisticated components. As an example, a typical AC has a blower that runs at a constant speed. A high-efficiency model, on the other hand, often has a variable-speed blower that ramps up and down. The price difference depends on many factors, including the brand and features. Still, you should expect to pay around 50% more as a starting point. Energy Incentives The average U.S....
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