HVAC BUILDING SOLUTIONS

The most efficient central air conditioners are those that have a high SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) usually from 20 to 26. A SEER rating is based on how adaptive the system is to season changes. Some models will also include an EER, or energy efficiency rating, which is based on the peak efficiency of the model. For homeowners who live in an area where the seasonal temperatures shift, SEER is the most important marker.

​In terms of the highest-performance models, the Lennox Signature Series XC25, the most premium of Lennox’s Signature Series, offers a 26 SEER rating and aims to eliminate fossil fuel use entirely. Replacing an aging system with this or a comparable system could increase your efficiency by 50-60%. Runners up include the Amana AVXC20 and Daikin DX20VC, which both offer a 24.5 SEER / 14 EER rating and function as variable capacity air conditioners. 

​Of course, these are the top performers on the market — there are many energy-efficient air conditioner systems that will help you save significantly and may offer a slightly lower price point. As an alternative, some heat pumps may offer greater efficiency, but don’t include central air.

Most air conditioner systems available on the market today offer some level of energy efficiency. They’re likely to be more efficient than an older model anyway, simply because they include new technologies and are functionally optimally.

​That said, the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is the rating most commonly looked at to understand how efficient a system is. The rating usually ranges from 13-23 (but now goes up to 26+!) with the higher numbers indicating the lowest levels of energy waste.  Other commonly used rating systems include EER (energy efficiency rating) and AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency), though SEER is generally the industry gold standard.

​For context, ENERGY STAR-rated products are required to have at least a 14.5 SEER rating, and an 11 EER (for single models) and 12 EER (for split models). With models like the Lennox Signature Series XC25 offering a 26 SEER rating, there’s clearly a large range of efficiency options available to help you reduce or virtually eliminate your energy bill and carbon footprint.

Just like a car or any other mechanical product, maintenance is an important part of keeping your system running optimally and lasting longer. Make sure to schedule annual maintenance, change your air filter regularly, and have your ductwork inspected occasionally to ensure there’s no damage, blockages, or harmful molds inside. 

​If your energy bill is going up and you aren’t sure of the cause, consider a home energy audit. A professional can assess how your system works and diagnose what potential issues you’re facing that are impacting efficiency.