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Air conditioning and heating typically eats up at least half of your energy bill. If your central air conditioning system is over 10 years old, replacing it with an Energy Star® qualified model could cut your cooling down significantly. Things to know:
1. Efficiency Ratings & Refrigerant
The cooling efficiency of your air conditioner (or heat pump) is measured by a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). The higher the SEER rating the less energy you use to stay cool. Current high end SEER ratings for a residential air conditioner is around 18-21 SEER.
Refrigerant is what absorbs because the older R-22 refrigerant has proved to be harmful to the environment. R-410A in the new refrigerant being used in modern air conditioners and heat pumps. *Note that R-410A is marketed under other names from other brands, but essentially it is the same regardless of brand.
Energy Star® approved air conditioners will obviously have a higher SEER rating than standard models, but you can still go a good deal higher than an Energy Star rating when purchasing components for a new HVAC system. Even Geothermal solutions exist today that take advantage of the Earth's natural resources.
Remember, by choosing an efficient A/C unit and taking steps to seal your home, you are helping make a better tomorrow while also saving on your monthly utility bills.
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