What else should I look for when buying a central air conditioner?
If you’ve decided that you need to purchase a new central air conditioning system, learn how to hire a contractor.
Remember, even though these products can be more expensive to purchase up front, the cost difference will be paid back over time through lower energy bills.
You can get better heating and cooling performance at home with ENERGY STAR home sealing (insulation and air sealing) and duct sealing.
Consider regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system to prevent future problems and unwanted costs.
Find Certified Equipment
The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) and the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) have developed an online database (link is external) which identifies high efficiency equipment that has been tested to ARI 210/240 and verified by AHRI. In addition, the online directory identifies ENERGY STAR certified Central Air Conditioner and Air-Source Heat Pumps.
Be sure to look for the ENERGY STAR when shopping for a central air conditioner
Current Requirements effective date: September 15, 2015
Central air conditioners originally qualified for the ENERGY STAR label in April, 1995.