Air Conditioning, Central

Did You Know? Heating and cooling costs the average homeowner about $1,000 a year - nearly half the home's total energy bill. If your central air conditioning unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an ENERGY STAR-qualified model could cut your cooling costs by 30%.

About ENERGY STAR Air Conditioning, Central

Overview ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioners have a higher seasonal efficiency rating (SEER) than standard models, which makes them about 14% more efficient than standard models. Remember, saving energy prevents pollution. By choosing ENERGY STAR and taking steps to optimize the performance of your cooling equipment, you are helping to prevent global warming and promoting cleaner air while enhancing the comfort of your home. You may also be interested to know:

• Though these products can be more expensive to purchase up front, the cost difference will be paid back over time through lower energy bills.
• When buying new equipment, it is important to get a quality installation. Make sure you get a contractor who can do the job right.
• You can get better performance out of your cooling equipment by sealing your home and making sure your ducts don't leak.
• EPA offers additional suggestions for improving the performance of your cooling system as well as general home improvement advice.

Buying Guidance

• What else should I look for when buying a central air conditioner? The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) have developed an online database which identifies high efficiency equipment that has been tested to ARI 210/240 and verified by AHRI. Please note that the Directory lists the products that meet the performance levels specified in the ENERGY STAR Central Air Conditioner and Air-Source Heat Pump specification.

• Only those products that have been listed by an ENERGY STAR partner are officially recognized as ENERGY STAR qualified. Please see the ENERGY STAR Partner List for more information.

FAQs These are the top FAQs related to Air Conditioning, Central and the ENERGY STAR program.

1. Should I turn off my Room Air Conditioner when I'm not home?
2. Are there ENERGY STAR qualified portable room air conditioners?
3. Why should I choose an ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioner?
4. Are there ENERGY STAR qualified ductless split-system air conditioners (mini splits)?
5. How do I choose the right size Room AC?
6. Is there a tax credit for central air conditioners?
7. Where can I buy ENERGY STAR qualified products?
8. Is every ENERGY STAR labeled product on your Web site?
9. Ordering ENERGY STAR Publications
10. What products are NOT covered by the tax credit?

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