Eco-friendly Air Conditioning Units

Tips on Purchasing an Eco-friendly A/C Unit

While residents of traditionally temperate climates in the U.S. like Seattle and Portland are scratching their heads over the recent summer heat wave, those in Phoenix are no strangers to high temperatures. Air conditioning services in Phoenix are often a necessity more so than a luxury.

However, with an estimated 140 million tons of carbon dioxide emitted from home air conditioning each year, all are responsible for reducing the negative impact on the environment. If you’re in the market for new air conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona, read the following tips to track down the most efficient, eco-friendly system available.

Air Conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona — SEER and EER and ENERGY STAR

Phoenix air conditioning units that bear the ENERGY STAR logo can help you save a minimum of 14 percent on your utility bills, as well as reduce your carbon footprint. However, President Obama’s new tax credit stimulus bill has set the bar even higher. The incentive is also greater, as the tax credit cap has also been raised from $500 to $1,500 for those who purchase qualifying Phoenix A/C service equipment.

To meet the eligibility guidelines for the tax credit, know that not all ENERGY STAR equipment will automatically qualify. In general, look for split system air source heat pumps that have at least 12.5 EER and 15 SEER, split system central A/C systems with at least 13 EER and 16 SEER and package systems with 12 EER and 14 SEER.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) refers to the energy efficiency of your Phoenix air conditioning system over the course of a season. EER measures how your Phoenix air conditioning system performs during peak usage times, as when outdoor temperatures reach at least 95 degrees Fahrenheit. For both SEER and EER, the higher the number, the more efficient your HVAC equipment.

Air Conditioning in Phoenix, Arizona — R-410A Refrigerant

Until fairly recently, most Phoenix air conditioning units operated on R-22, or Freon. However, what with the well documented evidence of ozone damage caused by R-22, Freon-based air conditioners are being phased out, soon to be completely off the market in the U.S.

The choice refrigerant for your air conditioning unit in Phoenix, Arizona should be R-410A, or Puron. R-410A is much safer for the environment and doesn’t create ozone damage. While you can still purchase Freon-based refrigerants until 2010, do the right thing and opt for air conditioning services in Phoenix that endorse Puron.

Sizing Your Phoenix A/C Service Equipment

Many homeowners make the mistake of purchasing oversized Phoenix air conditioning units, with the false hope that bigger is always better. In truth, while too small an A/C unit overburdens the entire system, oversized air conditioning units are a waste of energy and unevenly distribute air throughout the home. Hire a qualified Phoenix A/C service contractor to match the size of your air conditioning system with the room to be cooled.

Purchasing an efficient Phoenix air conditioning unit is only half the battle. Keep an eye on your thermostat, draw the drapes during the sunniest parts of the day and be sure your home is adequately ventilated and insulated. Alternate your A/C usage with fans, trim down your utility bills and lower your carbon footprint.