Upgrade Air Conditioner
Air conditioning uses 5% of all the electricity in the U.S. Switching to a high-efficiency air conditioner could reduce your air conditioning energy use by 15-50% depending on when your air conditioner was made.
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
For some climates, air conditioning is important to keep your home comfortable. However, running the AC all summer can add up to big energy usage and leave you with big monthly bills! If you have an older system, upgrading to an efficient model will significantly lower your energy bills and lower your impact.
There are a few types of air conditioning systems—central, ductless, and window systems. There are pros and cons of each, however, they can all benefit from upgrading to more efficient models. Learn more about system options and savings below.
1Decide when to upgrade
There are a few main reasons to consider replacing your current air conditioning system. First, if your unit stops working or it just isn’t doing the job (not cooling the house or not available in a new addition, etc.). This is pretty straight forward. Another reason you may want to upgrade is if your unit is old or inefficient enough that the upgrade will significantly lower your energy bills. Here are a few guidelines to consider when and if to upgrade.
When your AC unit was built. If your air conditioner is older, built before 1980, a new model will save 30-50% on energy use. However, even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, if it has a poor efficiency rating replacing it with a more efficient model could save 20-40% on your cooling bill.
Upfront costs. The average annual bill for cooling is only $100-150/year for window units and $300-$400/year for central units. Even if you save 50% with an upgrade, the annual savings is only $50-75 for window units and $200 for a central heating system. With an average cost of $200 -$300 for each new window unit and $2,000 or more for a central unit, it would take 5-10 years to cover the costs of the new unit.
Consider adding a heat pump. If your heating system also needs updating, the most cost-effective approach is to go with a heat pump heater which provides cooling as well.
Efficiency first. Before you upgrade your home air conditioning system, consider making some needed energy efficiency upgrades! Simple actions like insulating your attic or weather stripping your home can lower the amount of energy you need to cool your home. If you do these upgrades before you buy your new AC system, you may be able to purchase a smaller sized system—saving you money on the unit, install, and operation costs. Also, check out the Stay Cool action for other tips on how to stay cool and lower your AC use.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade will depend on your budget and priorities.
2Learn about air conditioning options
If you are ready to upgrade, there are a few things to consider. First, decide which type of system is best for your home. There are three types of air conditioning systems: central, small ductless mini-split and window or wall units. Here is more on each type:
Central air conditioning. There are two types of central air conditioning: split-system or packaged unit. In a split system, the compressor/condenser is outdoors and the evaporator is indoors. If your home already has a furnace but no air conditioner, a split system is the most economical to install. In a packaged unit, everything is outside. Packaged units often include a heating unit and eliminate the need for a separate furnace indoors.
Central units are more efficient than room units but more expensive to install. They are also out of the way, quiet, and convenient to operate. Central air conditioners are rated according to their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). Look for a system that is Energy Star rated at a minimum, and a higher SEER for greater savings. Check out the Energy.gov information on central air conditioning units and this Consumer Reports guide for more factors to consider.
Ductless mini-split air conditioning systems. Mini-split systems are similar to packaged systems where everything is outside and the air ducts come in through the exterior wall to distribute either warm or cool air. However, these systems don’t require a duct system. They have small indoor units that attach to the wall to distribute air. They are small flexible systems that are good for zoning a home or heating and cooling individual rooms. Many models can have up to four indoor units connected to one outdoor unit. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat so you can save energy and money. These systems are often easier to install and avoid the up to 30% energy losses that occur with central duct systems. For more information check out the Energy.gov guide.
Window units. Window units cool only the room they are in, which can make them less expensive to operate. These units are also rated by an energy efficiency ratio (EER). When buying look for the Energy Star label as a minimum guide. Proper sizing is important; an oversized unit can actually have poorer performance. Also, make sure to confirm your electrical system will meet the unit's requirements. For more information check out the Energy.gov guide.
Consider a new heat pump heating & cooling system. If your heating system is also in need of replacement, installing a heat pump system can provide both heating and cooling for just a bit more money than a new central cooling only system. It is also highly efficient and has a ductless version. If you want to replace wall units with a full home cooling system and don’t have a duct system, this is generally the way to go.
Also, learn more about air conditioning systems with the Energy.gov infographic.
3Choose a system and have it installed
If you are ready to upgrade, hire a contractor to help you choose the right system and install! Be sure to check references and quotes before you choose. Finally, once you have installed your new system, make sure to maintain it for maximum efficiency, energy savings, and comfort.