How Much More Energy-Efficient Are New Air Conditioners?

Professional Services
February 24, 2022

Air conditioners are necessary for keeping your home cool during Wisconsin’s hot summers, but they also bring inconveniences like a higher energy bill and a larger environmental footprint. How much more energy-efficient are new air conditioners compared to your old model? Experience tremendous energy savings and other benefits yourself.


Being stuck with a low energy-efficiency air conditioner can be stressful.  Professional Services' HVAC technicians in Sheboygan can help you determine the best replacement option and install it precisely. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of highly-efficient air conditioners and how they can help you save money.


Understanding SEER Ratings

To answer the question, “How much more energy-efficient are new air conditioners?” first, you must understand SEER ratings. The SEER rating stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rating explains the amount of electricity necessary for removing heat from indoors.


The higher the SEER rating is, the more energy-efficient the air conditioner is. Most states have minimum requirements for SEER ratings to avoid poor energy efficiency and cooling performance. Minimum ratings start at 13 and 14 SEER, while the highest is 25 for specific models.


Many old air conditioners are still operating due to replacement costs. After years of operation, a low SEER rating may lead to even worse performance. You could save up to 30% on energy by replacing your cooling system with a unit that has a significantly higher SEER rating.


Benefits of Switching to a New Air Conditioner

There are many benefits of replacing your low-efficiency air conditioner with a highly-rated model. Upgrades to internal parts make it much more worthwhile to get a new unit. From a cooler home to substantial energy savings, you’ll reap the benefits immediately.


1. New Purchase Incentives

The most apparent inconvenience about a unit with a high SEER rating is that it will initially be more expensive. Air conditioners with excellent SEER ratings will often come with purchase incentives. Some utility companies offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient equipment.


In certain states, installing an air conditioner with a high SEER rating can make you eligible for tax breaks. Check with your utility company to see if you’re qualified.


2. Better Sizing for Your Property

An improperly sized air conditioner boosts your utility bills significantly. A too-small system will frequently run, causing mechanical problems early on, while an oversized unit will cool air ineffectively. If your old unit is the wrong size for your home, upgrading will resolve performance issues.


With a reliable, professional installation, HVAC technicians will ensure you get the most efficient air conditioner that meets your home’s cooling needs. Technicians measure your heating and cooling needs in British thermal units. They’ll take your home’s overall size, ceiling height, climate, and other aspects into consideration.


3. Higher Energy Efficiency

How much more energy-efficient are new air conditioners? New models have much higher energy efficiency ratings than your 20-year-old system. If your current AC unit has a SEER rating of ten or lower, you’re wasting money while cooling your home.


Modern AC systems use significantly less electricity to cool your home. You could improve your home’s energy efficiency by up to 58% by switching to a SEER 25 model. Even switching to a SEER 13 model will boost efficiency by nearly 25%.


The refrigerant in AC systems negatively affects the ozone. New refrigerant, called R410A, is the updated standard and is less harmful to the environment, while R22 refrigerant is now illegal. Rest assured that you’ll help the environment by replacing your unit.


4. Cost and Energy Savings

You’ll notice the financial benefits and energy savings shortly after getting a new AC unit. Differences in SEER ratings contribute to excellent electricity savings.


Even if your unit already has a decent SEER rating, you can still save significantly. Swapping your SEER 14 unit for a unit with a rating of 19 or higher can bring savings between 26% and 42%.


Many new heating and cooling systems have smart features and are compatible with your smartphone or computer. In addition to the high SEER rating, you’ll save energy with these features. Your air conditioner’s smart thermostat can schedule the air to come on at certain times, helping you save even more on energy.


5. Quiet Operation

Obsolete mechanical parts contribute to your air conditioner's loud operation. Old AC models are disruptive and cause significant noise, making it difficult to enjoy time outside. New fan blade shapes and redesigned compressors make quiet operation possible.


Many smart models are practically silent. Getting the right size will also decrease fan and compressor volume if you have a noisy, oversized cooling system.


When to Replace Your AC Unit

In addition to, “How much more energy-efficient are new air conditioners?” you should also know when to replace your unit. Even if your AC system shows few problems, it may already be inefficient. An expert from Professional Services or another HVAC company can determine whether you’d benefit from a replacement.


If your air conditioning system or heat pump is older than ten years, you should replace it. After this point, your unit is no longer as efficient as it once was. You’ll also need a replacement AC system if you’ve expanded your home.


If your unit isn't running correctly, you may need a replacement if the damage is extensive. Most companies will alert you if repairs are not enough. Frequent maintenance can add up quickly, making AC replacement attractive.


AC Replacement

If you’re still wondering, “How much more energy-efficient are new air conditioners than old models?” Professional Services can answer your questions. For years, we’ve provided air conditioning replacement services and more to residents in Port Washington, WI, and the surrounding areas. Come to us for AC replacements you can trust.


Don’t resign yourself to high energy bills and an inefficient cooling system. Get a high-quality AC replacement by Professional Services. For tips on  buying your furnace and AC together, or if you’re interested in an estimate on your air conditioner’s needs, call us today at 262-218-2636.

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