There’s no better way to keep your Triangle area home cool this summer than with a high-efficiency central air conditioner. Such systems are more efficient than window air conditioners, as long as your ductwork is properly sealed, plus they provide consistent cooling to every room in your home. What allows air conditioners to earn high-efficiency status? Here’s a look at the various features that come together in the best high-efficiency air conditioners available today.
• Thermal expansion valve: During milder weather in South Carolina’s Midlands, this feature restricts the flow of refrigerant to save you money. When it heats up outside, though, the valve opens wide to provide the highest cooling capacity possible.
• Variable-speed air handler: Blower motors that can run at different speeds offer the flexibility to match different levels of cooling demand while saving you money and avoiding uncomfortable temperature fluctuations. Running at lower speeds more often, they do a superior job of air filtration and humidity control.
• Dual-stage compressor: This allows high-efficiency air conditioners to operate at lower capacity when the weather is moderate. This results in longer, more efficient cycles and better humidity removal.
• Fan-only switch: Take advantage of cool evenings by using the fan-only switch instead of running the compressor all night long. You’ll still enjoy air circulation, while benefiting from lower energy bills offered by this feature of high-efficiency air conditioners.
• Automatic-delay fan switch: The compressor works hard to cool the air circulating through the system. This feature of high-efficiency air conditioners keeps the fan running a little longer than the compressor so the cooled air can make its way into the living space.
The features of high-efficiency air conditioners work together to create a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. SEER 14 and higher is required for an air conditioner to qualify for the Energy Star label. Look for this label on high-efficiency air conditioners, and you’re sure to find one with all or most of these desirable features.
To shop for a new high-efficiency air conditioner, please contact us at Comfort Services today. We have more than 30 years of experience keeping homes in the Columbia area cool and comfortable.
Jul
12
2012
