The Most Efficient Air Conditioners for Beating the Heat This Summer

Beat the Heat with Energy Efficient AC Units

As summer temperatures climb, many homeowners look for ways to stay cool without sending energy bills through the roof. Upgrading to an efficient air conditioner is one of the best investments you can make. The latest AC units run on less electricity while keeping your home as comfortable as possible.

Factors That Affect Air Conditioning Efficiency

When shopping for an air conditioner, look at these key metrics:

SEER Rating – An AC unit’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures cooling output vs. electricity required.
Tonnage – Make sure your AC unit is properly sized for your home’s square footage.
Age – Newer ACs are vastly more efficient than 10+ year old units.
AC Type – Central, window, mini-split and portable units each have pros and cons.

Best Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioners circulate cool air through ductwork to keep your whole house comfortable. Look for the highest SEER and Energy Star ratings when buying a new system.

Carrier Infinity 26 Air Conditioner

This top-of-the-line AC unit comes with WiFi and smart home connectivity for controlling temperatures via app. It is pricey but worth it for the premium performance and features.

Lennox Elite Series XC25

The Lennox XC25 central AC raises the bar for efficiency and quiet operation. While expensive upfront, it can save over $1000 per year in energy costs.

Best Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners

Ductless mini-split AC systems have indoor units mounted on walls or ceilings. They work well for additions and open floor plans. Mitsubishi and LG make some great energy efficient mini-split options.

Pioneer Mini Split Heat Pump System

This affordable mini-split runs very quietly while providing both heating and AC. Easy DIY installation makes it a budget-friendly option.

LG LS120HEA Mini Split Air Conditioner

LG’s sleek mini-split offers wifi, Alexa and Google Assistant connectivity in a compact, visually appealing package.

Best Smart Air Conditioners

Smart air conditioners connect to home wifi networks for app and voice control. Many models integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri Shortcuts.

Frigidaire Gallery Cool Connect

This window air conditioner allows app control, real-time monitoring, and scheduling. The smart AC auto restarts after power outages too.

GE AHP10LZ Smart Portable AC

For small spaces, GE’s rolling portable AC offers Alexa and Google support. Caster wheels make it easy to move room to room.

Air Conditioner Energy Saving Tips

While upgrading older AC units provides big efficiency gains, you can also save energy by:

Closing blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day
Using ceiling fans to supplement AC
Making sure your AC unit is sized properly for your home
Having your HVAC system checked annually
Changing filters monthly
Setting thermostat to 78°F while away during the day

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most energy efficient central air conditioner?

Two of the most efficient central AC units are the Carrier Infinity 26 with greenspeed intelligence and the Lennox Elite Series XC25. Both are pricey but save on energy costs.

How much does it cost to replace central air conditioning?

The average cost to replace a central AC unit runs $5,000 to $10,000 depending on size, efficiency rating, brand and additional installation challenges.

Should I get a 14 or 16 SEER air conditioner?

While 16+ SEER AC units save more on energy usage, 14 SEER models still represent a significant upgrade from older units. Weigh efficiency gains against upfront costs for your climate.

What is the quietest central air conditioner?

Brands like Lennox, Carrier and Trane offer ultra-quiet AC condensers using advanced fan designs and sound insulation. Look for units rated under 73 dB for the quietest operation.

How often should you replace an air conditioner?

Plan to replace central AC units every 10-15 years. Mini-splits can last 15-20+ years. Upgrading older units from the 1990s can cut cooling costs by 40% or more.