Top 10 Most Energy Efficient Central Air Conditioners

Energy Efficient Air Conditioners

With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, energy efficiency has become an increasingly important consideration for homeowners and businesses looking to install or upgrade heating and cooling systems. Energy efficient air conditioners can consume a lot of energy if not properly sized and selected, leading to high electricity bills and unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions.

Fortunately, there are now many energy-efficient air conditioning options available that can help save on energy consumption and costs without sacrificing performance or comfort. Energy efficient air conditioners utilize innovative technologies like inverter compressors, smart thermostats, and improved insulation to provide the same level of cooling while using far less energy.

Upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioner can yield significant long-term savings while also reducing your carbon footprint. This article will guide you through the key factors in selecting the most efficient, cost-effective air conditioning solution for your needs. We’ll cover efficiency ratings, features to look for, different types of energy-efficient systems, the latest cooling technologies, and provide recommendations for the top-rated energy efficient models in 2024.

Choosing the Best Energy Efficient Air Conditioner

When shopping for a new high-efficiency air conditioning system, there are a few key specifications and features to consider in order to find the best option for your home or business.

Understanding Energy Efficiency Ratings

One of the most important factors to look at is the unit’s energy efficiency rating. Key ratings like Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), and Energy Star certifications indicate how effectively an air conditioner converts electricity into cooling power.

Higher SEER and EER values correspond to greater energy efficiency – so when comparing units, always choose the model with the higher ratings. Energy Star certified air conditioners meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, so they are also a reliable indicator of an energy-efficient system.

Assessing Your Needs

Carefully assess the size and cooling demands of the specific space you need to cool. An accurately sized system running at optimal efficiency uses the least amount of energy, while oversized units consume more than necessary.

Consider factors like room dimensions, window measurements for window units, sunlight exposure, insulation, number of occupants, and cooling needs. Consult sizing guides and use cooling load calculators to determine the appropriate BTU requirements.

Features to Look For

Many new features can also help maximize energy savings in air conditioning units. These include:

• Inverter compressors: These innovative compressors vary their speed to closely match cooling demands, using less electricity compared to traditional single-speed compressors.
• Smart/programmable thermostats: Allow you to set customized temperature schedules and automate temperature adjustments for greater efficiency.
• Variable speed fans: The fan speed adjusts along with the compressor to use less energy during lighter cooling loads.
• Improved seals, insulation, and materials to prevent cooled air from escaping and hot air from entering.

Types of Energy Efficient Air Conditioners

There are a number of air conditioner types and system configurations to consider when upgrading or installing a new high-efficiency cooling system.

Central Air Conditioning

For whole-home cooling, central air conditioning systems are the most common choice to install. High-efficiency central ACs utilize a central outdoor condenser linked to an indoor air handler and ductwork to deliver conditioned air throughout multiple rooms or zones.

Central air conditioners offer more power, efficiency, and comfort than room air conditioners. By sealing ductwork and adding zoning control, you can maximize energy savings with a central AC unit rated at least 14 SEER or higher.

Mini-Split Ductless Systems

Mini-split ductless systems provide an energy-efficient cooling and heating option for spaces without existing ductwork. An outdoor condenser connects via pipes and cables to one or more discreet indoor wall or ceiling units installed in different rooms.

Without duct losses, mini-split systems can operate more energy efficiently. Multi-zone systems also allow you to customize temperatures in different rooms. Mini-splits rated at least 18 SEER deliver excellent energy savings.

Through-the-Wall Air Conditioners

As the name suggests, these self-contained units mount into a wall sleeve passing through to the outdoors. Without taking up interior floor space or window area, through-the-wall air conditioners vent hot air and condensation outside efficiently.

While less common in new construction, they can be an efficient upgrade in older homes. Choose at least a 14 SEER rated unit.

Casement Air Conditioners

Casement or casement-style window air conditioners have an angled body designed to fit into crank-open and sliding windows. Compared to double-hung units, they provide a tighter seal for improved efficiency and cooling capacity.

If your window openings are suitable for a casement style, choose an Energy Star rated model offering at least 14 SEER for optimal efficiency.

Most Efficient Models in 2024

With rapid improvements in HVAC technology, air conditioning units today achieve much higher efficiency through advanced compressors, components, and intelligent controls. Here is an overview of some of the key innovations shaping the most energy-efficient air conditioner models in 2024.

Overview of the Latest Technologies

The latest generation of air conditioners utilizes technologies like:

• High-efficiency variable speed and multi-stage compressors capable of far greater temperature control precision.
• Sophisticated sensors and smart controls to continually balance temperatures and humidity.
• Improved heat transfer, airflow, and filtration designs.
• Inverter-driven variable speed compressors that provide more precise temperature control while using less electricity.
• Low-GWP refrigerants like R-32, R-454B, and R-290 that have much lower global warming impact.
• Integration with smart home platforms, apps, and voice assistants for greater control.
• Connectivity with solar panels, batteries, and electrical grids enabling new energy-saving capabilities.

Top Energy-Efficient Models

Many brands now offer advanced high-efficiency air conditioning models that set new performance benchmarks. Here are some of the most efficient top-rated units in 2024 based on SEER and EER ratings:

• Carrier Infinity 26 Air Conditioner – Up to 26 SEER rating makes it one of the market’s highest efficiency central AC units.
• Lennox XP25 – Its 25.5 SEER exceeds Energy Star requirements by over 75% for immense efficiency.
• LG LSN360HV – LG’s flagship 31 SEER central AC system designed for exceptional energy savings.
• Gree Flexx – Utilizes variable speed compressor technology to achieve up to 23.5 SEER.
• MRCOOL Universal Series Ductless Mini-Split – Energy Star certified mini-split offers up to 20.5 SEER performance.

Our Top Picks

Here are some of our top recommendations if you’re looking for an energy-efficient air conditioner that balances performance, features, and affordability.

A Good, Basic Air Conditioner

The Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner offers a great blend of value, efficiency, and cooling power. With an inverter compressor and Energy Star rating over 14 SEER, it’s a reliable and affordable cooling upgrade. We also like the smart Eco mode, follow me remote temperature sensor, and built-in antimicrobial filter.

A Unique Design, Quieter Than the Rest

If you have a sliding window, the Dreo DR-HAC002 Window AC sports an innovative U-shaped dual-hose design for fast, silent cooling. Its embedded antimicrobial filter also inhibits bacteria growth. With an Energy Star rating meeting 14 SEER, it delivers efficient performance too.

Attractive and Easy to Install

The TOSOT 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner has a clean modern design with an easy-to-use remote and LED display. It earns an Energy Star certification for efficiency while maintaining good airflow and quiet operation. Installation is also simplified with an EZ-Fit window bracket and expandable side panels.

Powerful, Efficient, and Very Quiet

The Friedrich Chill Premier CP12G10B window air conditioner provides a mighty 12,000 BTU of whisper-quiet cooling. Its variable speed compressor enables an impressive 19 SEER efficiency rating that exceeds Energy Star standards. With smart features too, it’s one of the most advanced window units available.

Bigger, Quieter, and More Window Space

For larger rooms, the LG LW1817IVSM Window Air Conditioner delivers 18,000 BTUs of cooling while only requiring a standard double-hung window frame. So you get more capacity with less window obstruction. Its clever design also makes it the quietest through-the-window AC around.

FAQs

What maintenance does an energy-efficient air conditioner require?

To sustain peak efficiency, it’s important to periodically replace air filters, clean coils and fins, confirm adequate airflow, check refrigerant levels, and verify proper drainage. Have a professional service the unit at least once every 2 years.

Are energy-efficient air conditioners more expensive upfront?

Typically yes, as the advanced technology and components enable greater energy savings over time but cost more initially. However, incentives like rebates and tax credits can offset some of the upfront price difference.

What’s involved in installing an energy-efficient central air conditioner?

For central air conditioning systems, installation is complex and best left to qualified HVAC professionals. It requires specialized equipment and skills for handling refrigerant, connecting ductwork, configuring electrical connections, and testing for leaks.

Should I only use my unit’s energy-saving modes?

The energy-saving and efficiency modes can reduce energy use. However, you may occasionally want to use faster cool-down modes or adjust fan speeds for greater comfort. Find the right balance for your situation.

Can I make an old AC more energy-efficient somehow?

Beyond regular maintenance, adding insulating window panels, sealing leaks in ductwork, upgrading to a programmable thermostat, or installing a higher SEER outdoor condenser can potentially improve the efficiency of an older system.

Conclusion

With rising energy prices and environmental awareness, upgrading home or business cooling systems to utilize energy-efficient technology simply makes sense. The latest high-efficiency air conditioners consume far less electricity than previous generations while keeping you just as comfortable.

Just be sure to understand important specifications like SEER and EER ratings when selecting a unit. Prioritizing efficiency also means taking the time to accurately size the capacity you need while evaluating features that optimize real-world performance and savings.

The growing variety of types and options when it comes to energy-efficient cooling ensures you can find an ideal solution. Whether it’s an innovative window unit or a state-of-the-art central air conditioning system, integrating one of the newest and most advanced models can save substantially on electricity bills for years to come while also reducing your environmental footprint.