Whether it is driving a hybrid car, recycling more, or selecting efficient appliances, people are making a conscious effort to lead a greener life. In fact, Appliance Magazine recently reported that 32% of homeowners who are planning to renovate are planning to go green. Green systems are not only an investment in a better environmental future, but they are also a good investment in your long-term financial future. Green systems qualify for a host of rebates and incentives. They also cut back on energy use, in turn cutting back on your utility bills. Frigidaire offers a range of green heating and cooling systems that can help homes lower energy consumption. At this point, it only makes sense to go as green as you can.
There are ratings and labels that note whether a heating or cooling system is deemed a green, eco-friendly HVAC unit. Here are some things to take into account when shopping for energy-efficient air conditioners, heat pumps or furnaces:
iQ Drive® heating and cooling systems are some of the most efficient
From a nearly 100% efficient furnace to an ultra-efficient air conditioner offered to homeowners, the iQ Drive line of equipment is the most complete selection of high-efficient heating and cooling products. Each system is able to modulate between different capacities in order to provide energy-efficient performance, more even temperatures and quiet operation. Additionally, iQ Drive heat pumps and air conditioners have additional dehumidification capabilities.
ecoLogic® products go above and beyond
At Frigidaire, we have our own way of designating the most efficient equipment we offer. Systems that meet the ecoLogic seal requirements must not only meet ENERGY STAR guidelines, but must include additional performance features. These include: sound reduction, multi-stage operation and smart controls. So, not only can you potentially get a significant cutback on your utility bills, but you can also experience premium home comfort day in and day out.
Invest in efficiency
There are three main efficiency ratings that heating and air conditioning systems are judged by – AFUE, SEER and HSPF. Regardless of which rating system you are looking at, a good general rule is the higher the number, the more efficient the system. Air conditioners are rated by SEER, furnaces follow AFUE and heat pumps are rated by both SEER and HSPF. Some packaged units – in particular, dual-fuel systems, are rated by all three. When you are going to purchase your new heating and air conditioning equipment, invest in the most efficient system you can afford. You won’t regret that decision when you get your first utility bill after the installation.
Look for ENERGY STAR® rated equipment
ENERGY STAR ratings are guidelines outlined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy that designate energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment based on individual products and practices. In order to be considered an ENERGY STAR rated product, HVAC units must exceed minimum performance benchmarks. For cooling equipment, minimum efficiency units are rated at 13-SEER, while heating equipment must be at least 80% AFUE. In order to be considered high-efficiency, ENERGY STAR rated equipment, split-system cooling units must be at least 14.5 SEER, packaged units must be at least 14 SEER, and furnaces must be rated at 90% AFUE or higher. ENERGY STAR also recognizes heating and air conditioning systems for being some of the most efficient available. Several Frigidaire products have been named as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient products – most recently in 2014.
