High-Efficiency Air Conditioners: Are They Worth Your Money?

In deciding what type of air conditioner to buy, one of the primary considerations a homeowner needs to make is the efficiency of the unit. These days, high-efficiency HVAC systems are becoming commonplace in the effort to promote eco-friendly practices. As summer draws near, household cooling consumption will also increase. With the increase in consumption also comes the rise in utility bills. If you are still using an old unit, even regular maintenance from Brighton air conditioning technicians will not suffice to lower your energy bills.

What is a high-efficiency air conditioning unit?

Each AC unit comes with an efficiency rating designated as a percentage. For example, if the energy-efficiency score of a particular model is 90%, it means that only 10% of the energy consumed will be wasted. The higher the rating, the more effective the unit is in using power. When you are using a highly efficient air conditioning unit, less energy is burned with maximum cooling benefits.

Is a high-efficiency air conditioning unit more expensive?

There are several factors to consider in whether or not a high-efficiency AC is an expensive investment. You need to take into account whether you are replacing the AC unit for a central HVAC system, or purchasing a room air conditioner. In general, if you are investing in a high-efficiency cooling system for an entire household, it will be a significant investment. But, you also have the option to install room air-conditioning units which are a perfect alternative for those who are on a budget.

How long will it take to recoup your investment?

There is no specific formula which will help determine how long it will take before you break-even on your investment and start realising savings. There are, however, online calculators which can help you compute how much you will save by switching to a high-efficiency AC unit. Although these calculators only provide you with estimates, they are enough to give you an insight into how much you can potentially save.

Is it worth investing in a high-efficiency air conditioning unit?

Every household has different cooling requirements. If you are concerned about the upfront cost of a high-efficiency AC unit, there are other ways you can reduce energy consumption. For example, you may consider improving your home’s insulation to minimise wasting energy in both heating and cooling. If the AC system is relatively new, a complete tune-up and maintenance check may be sufficient to increase the efficiency of the system.

You may also look into alternative energy sources such as renewable energy to reduce the overall household energy consumption. A heating pump is also an excellent alternative heating and cooling system which can help you save money and is also eco-friendly.

Replacing your existing cooling system with a high-efficiency unit is ideal when it is more than ten years old, and you are already spending a lot on maintenance and repairs. Once again, consider all these factors and weigh up the pros and cons of buying a new AC unit before purchasing.