Factors to Consider
Price
Energy efficient air conditioner prices tend to be higher than regular units. You can find the same model but with different versions, and the one with inverter varied speed compressor condenser (also called inverter units) will most likely have a much higher price point than a traditional air conditioner.
However, you can offset the difference in the initial price with the operating expenses of your energy efficient air conditioner. These units provide cool air using less energy, and will save you energy costs in the long run.
Space Requirements
The cooling power of the air conditioner is dependent on the space of the area to be cooled. The larger the space, the higher the BTU rating you will need. Inverter technology spans across multiple types and units of air conditioners, and you can find energy efficient central air conditioners, window units, mini split systems, and even portable air conditioner units.
You can decide to purchase the unit that fits your space the most, especially when it comes to available space, number of rooms, and size of the area. Based on the space requirements, you can determine the BTU rating you need to cool the room, the combined energy efficiency ratio that is most suitable for your space, and the type of air conditioner that you can install.
Cooling Capacity
One of the misconceptions about energy efficient air conditioners is that an energy efficient air conditioner has limited cooling power due to its optimization of energy consumption. However, this is not the case. Cooling capacity matters when it comes to installing an air conditioning unit of any kind, not just for energy efficient AC units.
The BTU rating or tonnage you need for your cooling system depends on the size of your space, and the number of rooms you're planning to cool. A small, window unit cannot properly cool multiple rooms like central air conditioners can, and 12,000 BTU mini split air conditioners can cool larger spaces than what a 5,000 BTU portable air conditioner can - regardless of whether it is energy efficient or not.
SEER Ratings
Understand the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings of air conditioners to find an energy efficient AC unit. This energy efficiency ratio (EER) determines how well the air conditioner can optimize energy consumption while functioning properly.
The SEER rating is important in determining the most efficient units to install. Most air conditioner models would have a SEER rating of 14 and above, but the ideal energy efficiency ratio is 23 and above. These are the units that can optimize energy consumption the most.
Maintenance
Lastly, maintenance is a must when it comes to air conditioner upkeep. Not all brands and models have low maintenance units, and you may end up spending more for frequent cleaning and repairs if you install a faulty unit. Scheduling routine maintenance with our team at Luce will help you upkeep your air conditioner conveniently.
Looking for cheap aircon recommendations? Click here.
Best Energy Efficient AC Unit
1. Amana AVXC20 Air Conditioner - $5000 - $6000+
Known as one of the most energy efficient units in the market, this Amana central air conditioning unit features a 24.5 SEER rating, which is much higher than the standard rating for air conditioners. There are multiple options to choose from, spanning 24,200 to 53,000 BTU, or 2 to 5 tonnes of cooling capacity.
Built for large spaces with multiple rooms, Amana central air conditioners are ideal for cooling large areas at a time without using up exorbitant amounts of energy. As a central air conditioner, it connects directly to existing ductwork, so installation is fairly standard.
2. LG 18,000 BTU Dual Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner - $849.00
The LG Dual Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner is ideal for single spaces that don't require central air conditioning. Despite its powerful 18,000 BTU cooling capacity, it features an energy efficiency rating of 14.4 EER, which is fairly standard in terms of energy efficient units.
3. LG LP1419IVSM 10,000 BTU Smart Wi-Fi Portable Air Conditioner - $699.00
Another development by LG, this smart portable air conditioner saves up on energy consumption, making it an efficient unit that is great for small rooms. The portable air conditioner can create cool air with less energy input needed, so you can save the costs of running the unit.
What to Look For in an Air Conditioner?
Can't decide on the right air conditioning units to buy? Our purchasing assistance will match you with the most suitable air conditioning system in the market according to your space requirements, energy star ratings, and budget!
Get started on your scouting, and contact us at Luce for assistance in finding and purchasing your air conditioning system!