Are you in the market for a new air conditioner for your home or business? If so, opting for an energy efficient model is a worthwhile investment. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you’ll save considerably on your heating and cooling bills. Here are a few tips to help you find an energy efficient unit that suits your needs.
Check for Energy Star certification
In order to receive this type of certification, an appliance must meet certain standards for energy efficiency. If you find an air conditioner with this signature blue label on it, you can be sure the model will use less energy than similar, uncertified models.
Read the EnerGuide label
An increasing number of air conditioners now come with an EnerGuide label. Among other things, this label indicates how much energy an appliance uses in kilowatt hours. It also compares the unit’s energy usage to that of similar models on the market. This information can be crucial if you’re trying to choose between two air conditioners.
Select the right size AC
To maximize the energy efficiency of your air conditioner, it needs to be appropriately sized for the space. If the unit is too small, it might end up running constantly without ever sufficiently lowering the indoor temperature. Conversely, if the unit is too large for the space, it won’t run long enough to remove humidity from the air. This excess moisture can leave you feeling clammy and uncomfortable.
Opt for a programmable unit
Fortunately, most modern air conditioners come with programmable temperature settings that ensure the unit automatically shuts off when the air reaches a precise temperature. Additionally, you can program it to vary the indoor temperature during the day based on when you’ll be home so that it doesn’t run unnecessarily.
Speak with a professional
One of the best ways to accurately compare air conditioners and determine which one is the most energy efficient is to consult an HVAC technician. These professionals can also assess what size unit is needed for your home or business. Plus, once you’ve selected a unit, they can take care of the installation as well.
Experienced HVAC technicians in the Calgary area
If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, the professionals at Harmony Heating & Air Conditioning would be happy to help you find and install an energy efficient model. We can also take care of maintenance and any necessary repairs down the road. For more information about our services, contact us today.