An air conditioner often takes up a significant portion of your energy bill. Keeping your home cool can be especially expensive during the summer months. One way to keep these costs down is to invest in a modern air conditioner for your home. New air conditioner models are much more energy efficient compared to older systems, and you can often save anywhere from 20% to 40% on your utility bill.
Most air conditioners will last 15-20 years before needing a replacement. An HVAC company specializing in air conditioning services can easily install a brand-new unit for your home. Learning more about the different technological advances for modern air conditioners is well worth your time if you are considering an upgrade.
Here are the main reasons why modern air conditioners are more energy efficient.
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1) Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats have become much more popular in recent years as they allow homeowners greater control over their heating and cooling systems. These thermostats are designed to learn your daily routine and preferences, enabling them to adjust the temperature accordingly. You can also change your settings or create a schedule to match your needs best.
Over time, this results in less energy waste, as the system only runs when necessary and in the most efficient settings. Smart thermostats can even be remotely controlled via smartphone apps, allowing homeowners to monitor and adjust their system’s performance. You can also replace your existing thermostat with a smart thermostat to experience these benefits.
2) Use of Two-Stage Compressors
Two-stage compressors are another feature found in many modern air conditioners. Unlike traditional single-stage compressors, which operate at full capacity whenever the system is running, two-stage compressors can operate at both a high and low capacity depending on the home’s cooling demands.
Using a two-stage compressor allows the air conditioner to use much less energy during periods of lower demand, such as during cooler days or when the home is unoccupied. Making sure a new AC is a two-stage compressor is always a good idea before installing a new system. Two-stage compressors are a great way to prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner due to their innovative design.
3) Better EER and SEER Ratings
One of the most significant improvements in modern air conditioners is the improved Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. SEER is a measurement that rates the cooling efficiency of an AC system throughout an entire cooling season, while EER measures the efficiency at a specific outdoor temperature.
Higher SEER and EER ratings indicate a more efficient unit, meaning it uses less energy to cool your home. Modern air conditioners must have a minimum SEER rating of 13, while older models may have ratings as low as 6. Today’s air conditioners can be up to twice as energy efficient as their predecessors, saving homeowners a significant amount on their energy bills.
4) Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional central air conditioning systems. These units consist of an outdoor compressor and at least one or more indoor air handlers connected by refrigerant lines. Mini-split systems are highly efficient, as they eliminate the need for ductwork, which can be a significant source of energy loss.
Additionally, mini-split systems can be easily zoned, allowing homeowners to manage the temperature in individual rooms, further reducing energy waste. Reaching out to a company offering air conditioning services is a great way to learn more about the benefits of installing mini-split systems for your home.
5) Variable Speed AC
Traditional air conditioners typically use single-speed motors, which operate at the same speed regardless of the cooling demand. This can result in wasted energy, as the system may not always require full power to maintain the desired temperature. However, modern air conditioners often feature variable-speed motors, which can adjust their speed based on the home’s cooling needs.
A variable-speed motor results in a more efficient and cost-effective cooling solution, as the system consumes less energy overall. Modern air conditioners with variable-speed motors are just one of the many reasons these new systems are more energy efficient than older models.
Contact Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning Services to Learn More
Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning provides heating and cooling services for a wide range of customers. Delivering quality HVAC services at an affordable price is always a priority. Our team also specializes in many other services, whether you need fireplace installation, duct cleaning, ductless maintenance, and much more.
Air conditioning is vital in helping you stay cool during the spring and summer months. However, it’s possible that an excessive amount of heat outside can have a negative impact on your air conditioner. Understanding the temperature differential and the limits on air conditioners can help you choose the best unit that will keep you comfortable without overworking your system or causing you to need AC unit repair services.
Here the experts from Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning have provided some tips to help you avoid breakdowns and costly AC unit repairs during the hotter months.
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What is Temperature Differential?
The temperature differential is simply the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures. Understanding the temperature differential is key in determining how efficiently an air conditioning system can cool your home. Most AC systems are designed to handle a temperature differential of about 20°F. This means that if the outdoor temperature is 95°F, your AC should be able to maintain an indoor temperature of around 75°F in ideal conditions.
Why Do Air Conditioners Have Limits?
One of the main reasons for these limits is that the cooling capacity of an AC is based on a specific set of conditions, usually a standard outdoor temperature and a specific indoor temperature. The efficiency of this process depends on the temperature differential and other factors such as humidity and insulation. If the outdoor temperature is exceptionally high, it becomes increasingly difficult for your AC to effectively remove heat, causing it to work harder and consume more energy.
Can I Install a Bigger Air Conditioner?
While it can be tempting to think that getting a more oversized air conditioner will solve the problem of high heat, it’s not necessarily the best solution. An oversized AC system can lead to short cycling, causing increased wear and tear on the components and reducing energy efficiency. A giant system can also fail to adequately remove humidity, leading to a damp and uncomfortable indoor environment.
Need Air Conditioning Services? Give Us a Call Today!
Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning provides HVAC services for customers throughout Salem and the surrounding areas. Delivering top-quality services is always a priority, whether you need AC unit repair, furnace installation, ductless mini-split services, or any other service we offer. Our team can answer any of your heating and cooling questions while providing tips on keeping your home comfortable.
An air conditioner is crucial in keeping your home comfortable, but it can also cost extra money if you aren’t careful. Learning how to avoid common mistakes can save you money and improve the energy efficiency of your system. Working with experts like Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning that provide air conditioning services can also save you money and boost the lifespan of your system.
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Here we’ve collected some of the most common and costliest air conditioning mistakes you should avoid.
Using a Dirty Filter
Air filters usually need to be replaced every few months. On the other hand, a dirty filter forces your system to work harder, which increases the cost of keeping your home cool. A new filter also puts less stress on your system, which helps extend your air conditioner’s lifespan.
Running Your Air Conditioner All Day
Keeping your air conditioner running all day can significantly raise your utility bill. The best option is to set the thermostat higher if you are away from home. A programmable thermostat is an excellent choice for creating a schedule to optimize cooling for your home.
Not Cleaning Around Your Outdoor Unit
Staying proactive by removing vegetation around your outdoor unit is essential in avoiding problems. Taking the time to remove weeds and keeping the grass mowed around your unit will optimize airflow. Your air conditioner will work much better by keeping the area clean.
Forgetting About AC Maintenance
Scheduling maintenance for your air conditioner is vital to making sure it’s working at an optimal level. Unfortunately, too many homeowners do not schedule ongoing maintenance services. A lack of maintenance increases the chance of dealing with costly ac repairs.
Not Replacing Your Old Unit
An older air conditioner will operate less efficiently over time. Typically, it’s a good idea to replace your unit if it’s between fifteen to twenty years of age. A new unit can make it easier to cool your home while lowering your utility bill cost.
Need AC Unit Repair? Give Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning a Call!
Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning offers HVAC installation and repair services for customers in Salem and the surrounding areas. Our team also provides duct cleaning, fireplace installation, and other services.
