Central Air Conditioners
Did you know?
Cooling systems typically consume 10% of the total electricity used by a California home. Many households can lower their cooling electricity use and costs by simply turning off their room air conditioner or by performing other free and low-cost measures to cool a home. Learn how with Flex Your Power's Energy Saving Tips.
Why Buy an Energy-Efficient Central Air Conditioner?
To realize the most savings, invest in an energy-efficient central air conditioning system for your home. Even better, purchase an ENERGY STAR qualified model, which is about 20% more efficient than standard models. Heat pump and central air conditioner efficiency is often expressed in terms of the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and/or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), which are defined as the cooling effect (in Btu) divided by the power use (in watts) for the peak day (EER), or by the seasonal average day (SEER). ENERGY STAR qualified models are more energy-efficient due to higher SEER or EER.
- Cut energy costs in half. If your air conditioner was made in the 1970s, you are using 30 to 50% more energy than today's best air conditioners to produce the same amount of cooling. Replacing an old central air conditioner that has a SEER of 6 with a new energy-efficient unit that has a SEER of 12 or better may cut your air conditioning costs in half. ENERGY STAR central air conditioners use about 20% less energy each year than a standard air conditioner.
- Gain a high return on your investment. The energy cost savings realized over the lifetime of an energy-efficient central air conditioner can offset the initial cost of the product.
- Get up to $425 in rebates. Your local utility may offer $200 to $425 in rebates for buying an ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioner. Visit Rebates, Incentives & Services to find these programs.
Make sure to choose the right size and model for your home. Enlist the services of a qualified technician.
Next Steps
Find Rebates, Incentives & Services
Many utilities are offering $200 to $425 in rebates for buying an ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioner. Search now.
Energy Tips
Make sure you get a properly sized central air conditioner. A unit that is too large will not adequately remove humidity. A unit that is too small will not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature on the hottest days. More tips.
Product Guides
See Flex Your Power's guide to energy-efficient central air conditioners for more detail about what makes it energy efficient, how to make the best choice and for a list of manufacturers. Product Guides.
