Should You Consider a High-End Air Conditioner?

Should You Consider a High-End Air Conditioner?If there is anywhere in the country where a high-end air conditioner makes sense, it has to be in the Arizona deserts, especially Yuma. In terms of temperatures, this region of the country has some of the most scorching weather on the continent. Although high-end systems cost more, they start paying for themselves immediately in energy savings and comfort.

What Makes High Efficiency Different?

A central air conditioner or heat pump that’s rated as high efficiency has a 15 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating. The current minimum you can buy is 14 SEER and the difference between 14 and 15 SEER indicates the system uses 10 percent less energy.

If you’re replacing a system with a 10 SEER rating, theoretically, you’d be saving 50 percent on energy costs. Engineers find the SEER ratings of cooling systems under laboratory conditions and while accurate, actual performance does vary by the quality of the installation. You can ‘Count on Us’ to do it correctly.

Behind the SEER Rating

Many times the standard features of a high-end air conditioner boost the SEER rating. Features to look for in cooling systems for Yuma include:

Variable-speed operation.

The compressor for the A/C or heat pump runs at different speeds based on the demand for cooling. It will only run on high during exceptionally hot times, like mid-afternoons or on extremely hot days. These systems save considerable energy. Some are paired with variable-speed fans in the air handler that keep temperatures indoor stable. They also run quietly and distribute the cooled air thoroughly.

Zoning systems.

Combining a variable-speed cooling system with a zoning system gives you the best of both worlds. Your home is divided in to separate sections that have different cooling requirements. Each zone has its own thermostat.

Zoning is perfect for two-story homes, those that have unused areas, or rooms that are hotter than others. Paired with programmable thermostats, zoning systems save substantial energy and money.

High-end air conditioners and heat pumps will save your energy dollars and provide greater comfort during Yuma’s long hot summers. To learn more about them, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company, providing HVAC services for Yuma-area homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 928-723-3183.