Heating and cooling costs can be a significant expense for homeowners. If your air conditioning or heating unit is more than ten years old, you are probably throwing away money unnecessarily on your energy bills. Homeowners today have many options at their fingertips. And by upgrading to an Energy Star qualified model you can save considerable amounts of money each year off by reducing your gas and electricity usage. This does not even take into consideration the tax rebates and credits that are available from states and the federal government. Energy saving consumer products generally uses 30% less energy than standard models. The program is sponsored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Its aim is to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to standard models, they cost more upfront but will repay the difference for years to come.
Energy saving air conditioning units are readily available today in all major appliance retailers. Their efficiency is rated and a good retailer can and should help you choose the appropriate size for your residence or office building. Although you could save money by installing yourself, it is recommended that these units be installed by a properly trained technician. A poor installation will net different results than what is expected. In terms of cost savings, not only will you benefit from an efficient air conditioning unit, but you will also see savings from ensuring that your home is airtight. An air tight home is one that reduces leaks through holes or poor windows. A trained technician can evaluate how air tight your home is and make recommendations for improvements. A heating and air company may also be able to assist by checking for leaks in the ventilation system or duct work. It is important to address leaks because even an energy saving appliance will not be able to deliver its full potential of savings if the home is drafty.
When comparing air conditioning units, brands such as Lenox, Trane, or Carrier may appear to be very similar upon first glance. Chances are, if you are an average consumer, you will need to do a little bit of research to learn the differences and what you should be looking for. Pay attention to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, also known as the SEER value when evaluating the different brands. Additionally, talk to a professional about the reliability and warranty programs offered by various manufacturers. You'll want to choose a manufacturer whose product is reliable and that offers hassle free service.
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