Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Energy Efficiency (Mini Split Air Conditioner Buying Guide)

Mini split systems are efficient ways to cool your home. Their efficiency is measured by a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit. Currently, federal requirements state mini splits must have a 13.0 SEER rating to be used in the United States. Another energy rating to look out for is Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), which looks at energy usage per square foot of cooling. SEER and EER both rate your product's efficiency, so keep an eye out for one or the other when comparing products.

Along with SEER (and possibly EER) ratings, your model should come with an estimated yearly operating cost. This is an average dollar amount associated with your model based on operating and maintenance costs—if you're comparing 2 models, check out the estimated yearly cost before purchasing.

If a model is extremely efficient, it can become Energy Star-rated. In order to become Energy Star-rated, models must prove to significantly contribute to energy savings and offers products and performance demanded by consumers. Replacing an inefficient cooling system with a mini-split can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.

What Makes Mini Splits So Efficient?

More control: In traditional heating and cooling systems, you have one thermostat that controls the temperature in your entire home. Using a mini-split AC lets you control the temperature in each zone, so you can make sure commonly-used spaces are more comfortable than rooms you rarely use. This zone cooling helps save you on energy costs since you aren’t paying to cool your entire home, but only areas you commonly use.

Ductless: In traditional ACs, ducts are used to distribute cool air throughout your home. About 20% of that air is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. Removing this step—like mini splits do—saves you energy and money.

Heating and Cooling: Mini splits can deliver cool and warm air from the same unit, which traditional ACs don't offer. This avoids having to install and run two separate units.

Contact;

1 comment: