If you live in Florida, especially in areas like Auburndale, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Haines City, or Plant City, you already know how much your air conditioner works year-round. But with rising energy costs and the constant need for cooling, many homeowners are wondering: Do energy-efficient air conditioners really save money? The short answer? Absolutely — and here’s why.
What Does Energy Efficiency Mean in Air Conditioners?
Energy efficiency in air conditioners refers to how well a unit converts electricity into cooling power. This is usually measured by a SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the SEER rating, the less electricity the unit uses to produce the same amount of cooling. In places like Auburndale and the surrounding areas, where air conditioners run more often, a high-SEER unit can make a huge difference.
How Much Money Can You Actually Save?
The savings can be significant. If you’re upgrading from an older AC unit with a SEER rating of around 10 to a new model with a SEER rating of 16 or higher, you could cut your cooling costs by 30% or more. Over the life of the unit — which can be 10-15 years — that adds up to thousands of dollars in savings.
For example, if your typical electric bill in Winter Haven runs $200 a month during the summer and $120 of that is from AC usage, a 30% reduction could mean saving $36 a month. Multiply that by four months of heavy usage and you’re looking at nearly $150 a year — just in peak season savings.
Other Benefits of Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners
- Better Performance: New, energy-efficient AC units cool your home more evenly.
- Quiet Operation: High-efficiency systems tend to run more quietly, giving you peace and comfort.
- Environmentally Friendly: Less energy usage means a smaller carbon footprint, helping the environment.
- Rebates and Incentives: Some power companies and government programs offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. If you live in areas like Bartow or Haines City, check with local utility providers for special offers.
How to Choose the Right Energy-Efficient AC
When choosing an energy-efficient air conditioner, look for the following:
- SEER Rating: Aim for 16 or higher if you live in Polk County or nearby areas.
- Proper Sizing: An oversized unit will cycle too often; an undersized one will run constantly. The right size matters.
- Professional Installation: Even the best unit can perform poorly if not installed correctly.
Is It Worth the Upfront Cost?
Energy-efficient air conditioners do cost more upfront. But in areas like Lakeland and Plant City, where AC units are running nearly year-round, that initial cost pays for itself in energy savings over time. Plus, many manufacturers offer financing options to help spread out the cost.
Don’t Forget Maintenance!
Even the most energy-efficient system can lose its performance without regular maintenance. Change air filters regularly, have your unit inspected annually, and make sure your ducts are sealed. This simple maintenance ensures your AC stays efficient for years.
Why Trust Freedom Air Conditioning?
At Freedom Air Conditioning, located at 207 Gandy Rd, Suite B, Auburndale, FL 33823, we specialize in helping homeowners in Auburndale, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Haines City, and Plant City make smart choices about their home cooling systems.
We’re an authorized Daikin dealer, offering some of the most energy-efficient and reliable systems on the market, including the Daikin Fit. Whether you’re upgrading your current unit or installing a new one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Save Money on Your Energy Bills?
If you’re tired of high utility bills and want to know if upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioner is right for you, give us a call at (863) 229-7058, or visit us at www.myfreedomair.net to request a free estimate.
Make the switch to comfort and savings — contact Freedom Air Conditioning today!
