If you’re thinking you might need a new AC, you may feel a little overwhelmed with all of the high-tech energy efficient types available now. As of January, 2006, the United States government mandated all new central ACs be at least 13 SEER. SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating is how air conditioning units are measured for energy efficiency. The larger the SEER, the more efficient the unit. You can invest in a high-efficiency air conditioning unit with a SEER rating as high as 23. All of the new high-efficiency air conditioning units use R-410A, a far more eco-friendly refrigerant than the old R-22 (Freon).

So how do you determine which one to invest in?  A high-efficiency air conditioner will conserve money on energy bills, but will cost more in the beginning. It makes sense to buy a higher rated air conditioning unit if you plan to stay in your home for a long time, if you live in a part of the country where the air conditioning season is long, and you can afford the additional money for the initial investment. You have to weigh how critical the efficiency is when compared to your general comfort, helping the environment and your finances.

One thing homeowners don’t realize is it’s just as crucial, maybe more important, to select a company who will set up your system correctly. You don’t want a technician who is willing to cut corners. For instance, never ever let anyone talk you into replacing the indoor or the outdoor unit only. These new units are made to work together. Mixing and matching an aged indoor unit with a modern outdoor unit, or vice versa can cause the unit to run less efficiently, can shorten the life of both units and most importantly can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Also, you don’t want to get a unit that’s too big for your home. It will cycle on and off too frequently, have trouble removing humidity, create inconsistent temperature in your home, and result in an increased electricity bill. A professional heating and cooling company can perform a heat load calculation on your dwelling to ascertain the appropriate size unit. Also, check to see what kind of guarantees they offer on their installation and air conditioning repairs. Picking the correct company can save you a lot of trouble in the future. One other tip – check for rebates from your local utility company. Many offer significant savings of hundreds of dollars for putting in a high-efficiency unit.