Shopping for a new cooling system can be a challenging process since it’s not something you do very often. The most important A/C features to consider are the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating of the systems you’re considering and the components that contribute to more efficient performance.
The minimum stands at 13 SEER and systems go into the 20s. If you’re replacing an older 10 SEER or lower system, you’ll notice that your cooling costs will be lower, especially if you choose a system with a high SEER rating. Each increase in the number indicates that the system uses 10 percent less energy to cool.
Look for these A/C features that increase the SEER, along with your indoor comfort:
- Variable-speed motor in the blower. A variable-speed motor, also known as an electronically commutated motor (ECM), runs more quietly, removes more humidity and uses significantly less electricity than a single-speed motor.
- Dual-speed compressors. When the compressor runs at a lower speed during moderate weather, it uses less electricity. This type of compressor only runs at top speed when the weather is exceptionally hot, which cuts your cooling bills.
These next features won’t increase the SEER, but they will cut energy consumption and help you get the most from your cooling system:
- Air-filter check light. The air filter for the blower traps the airborne particulates so they don’t enter the blower. Keeping the filter clean lowers energy consumption and prevents premature equipment failure. This light alerts you to check the filter, the most important maintenance task to perform.
- Fan-delay switch. The switch runs the blower for a few minutes longer than the condenser, which evacuates all the cooled air from the ducts.
- A fan-only switch. This feature lets you run the blower when it’s milder to circulate the air, increasing your comfort at night or in the spring or fall, since moving air feels cooler.
If you’d like to learn more about A/C features for your new system, contact Aladdin Heating & Cooling. We’ve provided outstanding HVAC services for metro Detroit, including Lake Orion, Clarkston and Oxford for more than 65 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Detroit, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C features and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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