Choosing the perfect air conditioner isn’t just about cooling your home—it’s about selecting the most efficient air conditioning system for your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and budget. With rising energy bills and increased awareness around energy efficiency standards, making the right choice can lead to significant long-term energy savings.
At Fireside HVAC, we help homeowners make smart, personalized decisions with the right mix of cooling capacities, advanced features, and expert advice. This guide breaks down how to choose the right AC efficiency rating and system to suit your home.
What Does AC Efficiency Really Mean?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the most common way to rate AC performance. It measures the cooling output over a season divided by the total electric energy input. The higher the SEER, the more efficient cooling you get for less power.
SEER Rating Guide
13–16 SEER: Meets minimum energy standards. Ideal for mild climates or budget-conscious buyers.
16–18 SEER: Great balance of performance and cost. Ideal for most U.S. homes.
20+ SEER: High-efficiency systems designed for maximum annual energy consumption savings—up to 10–50% less energy use.
Use an energy calculator or consult with a professional to understand how different SEER levels affect your annual energy consumption and wallet.
Factors That Determine Your Ideal AC Efficiency
1. Home Size and Cooling Needs
Proper Air conditioner sizing is critical. An oversized unit wastes energy and can cause comfort issues due to poor humidity control. An undersized unit will struggle to maintain optimal comfort. A split system air conditioner or central air conditioner that’s been correctly sized by a technician will ensure efficient cooling and performance.
2. Climate and Energy Usage
In hotter or more humid regions, high-efficiency systems with Variable speed systems offer more consistent temperature control and energy savings. If you live in a temperate climate, mid-range units may be sufficient.
3. Budget and Initial Cost
The initial cost of a higher-SEER unit may be higher, but long-term energy savings, lower energy usage, and eligibility for heat pump tax credit or heat pump rebates often outweigh that investment.
Types of Air Conditioners and Their Efficiency Potential
There are several types of air conditioners, each with different efficiency potential:
Central Air Conditioning Systems: These consist of an indoor unit (typically an air handler) and an outdoor unit connected by refrigerant lines. These systems are ideal for whole-home cooling, especially when integrated with ducted heat pumps.
Split System Air Conditioners: The most common type, great for energy savings with Proper installation. Include ducted air conditioners and mini-split options.
Ductless Mini-Splits: Best for additions or homes without ducts. Allow individual units in separate rooms, reducing energy losses.
Window Units and Portable Air Conditioners: Offer convenience for small spaces. Though less efficient, newer Smart air conditioners offer better control via smart home devices and programmable thermostats.
Hybrid Air Conditionersand air source heat pumps: Great for eco-conscious homeowners, these systems switch between gas and electric for optimal efficiency.
Each type of air conditioner has different maintenance requirements and energy-saving features, which is why consulting an air conditioner buying guide or HVAC professional is highly recommended.
Key Features That Influence Efficiency
Variable Speed Systems: Adjust output to match cooling needs and reduce energy waste.
Programmable Thermostat: Helps manage temperature settings and optimize energy usage.
Energy Guide Labels: Always compare Air conditioner ratings before purchase.
Static Pressure Management: Ensures air moves efficiently through ductwork.
ENERGY STAR Certification: Look for certified systems that meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the government.
Maintenance Tips for Continued Performance
No matter how efficient your system is, regular maintenance is essential to keep it running at peak performance:
Replace filters monthly or as needed.
Schedule professional inspections to monitor for energy loss or air conditioning repair needs.
Clean coils and ensure airflow is unrestricted to prevent strain on the air conditioning systems.
These maintenance tips help extend the lifespan of your unit, reduce air conditioning repair costs, and maintain peace of mind.
Get the Right Efficiency with Fireside HVAC
Choosing the best-sized air conditioner with the right efficiency rating can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring individual units, central air, or mini-splits, Fireside HVAC is here to help.
Our licensed professionals will assess your home, energy needs, and layout to match you with the most energy-efficient air conditioning system, installed with precision and backed by trusted service.
Contact Fireside HVAC today to schedule your consultation and find the AC system that delivers the perfect blend of comfort, savings, and performance.
When your air conditioning system is running but your home still feels warm, you’re not alone. This is a common issue in both residential and commercial HVAC systems, and it can stem from several causes—ranging from simple airflow restrictions to complex heat pump and refrigeration cycle failures.
At Fireside HVAC, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing all types of HVAC systems. Below, we break down why your air conditioning unit might be running but not cooling and how to fix it.
Common Reasons Your AC Isn’t Cooling
1. Airflow Obstructions
Dirty Air Filter
One of the most common reasons a home air conditioner fails to cool effectively is a clogged filter. This restricts airflow and reduces the unit’s cooling capacity, putting stress on components like the centrifugal fan, air handler, and evaporator.
Blocked Condenser Coils
Your condenser (in the outdoor unit) helps dissipate heat from your home. If it’s covered in debris, airflow and heat transfer are restricted.
Duct Issues
Leaky or blocked ducts allow cool air to escape before it reaches your rooms, reducing efficiency and causing uneven temperatures—especially in attics or multi-floor homes.
Ceiling Fan Use
While not a direct part of the system, ceiling fans can enhance air circulation and help distribute cool air more effectively.
2. Refrigerant Problems
Refrigerant is crucial to the heat pump and refrigeration cycle. If your system has a refrigerant leak or wasn’t charged properly, it won’t cool efficiently. Low refrigerant also causes the evaporator coil to freeze, further reducing airflow and system function.
3. Component Malfunctions
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is central to your system’s function, circulating refrigerant through the evaporator and condenser coils. If it fails, your system may run but won’t cool.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
When airflow is restricted due to a dirty filter or fan failure, condensation on the evaporator can freeze, halting cooling entirely.
Thermal Expansion Valve Issues
A malfunctioning valve may cause refrigerant flow issues, impairing heat exchange between the indoor and outdoor units.
4. Thermostat or Control System Issues
Incorrect Settings
If your smart thermostat or manual thermostat is set to “fan” instead of “cool,” your system will circulate air without engaging the heat exchanger or refrigerant cycle.
Faulty Thermostat
A malfunctioning unit won’t accurately detect indoor air quality, temperature, or humidity, impacting overall system efficiency.
5. Environmental and Structural Factors
- Poor insulation or improper building insulation leads to heat gain, making cooling less effective.
- An undersized AC unit (measured in tons) can’t meet your home’s cooling demands, especially in hot climates or older homes with limited insulation.
- High humidity levels may require an integrated dehumidifier for better comfort and efficiency.
Troubleshooting Tips
Before calling in a pro, try these steps:
- Replace the air filter
- Clear debris from the outdoor unit
- Reset your thermostat
- Check for blocked vents or pipe issues
- Inspect your ceiling fans and attic ventilation
Still no improvement? It’s time to call HVAC contractors near you.
Why Professional Help Matters
From identifying pressure issues in the heat pump to testing your refrigerant levels, HVAC professionals like Fireside HVAC provide the expertise needed to resolve complex air conditioning problems. Our technicians are trained in servicing a wide range of systems including central air, split system air conditioners, ductless air conditioners, and mini split AC units.
We also work with top brands like Trane and offer HVAC maintenance to prevent future breakdowns and support energy-efficient performance.
Schedule Your AC Service with Fireside HVAC
If your air conditioning is running but not cooling, don’t wait for the issue to get worse. At Fireside HVAC, we deliver professional, transparent, and reliable heating and air conditioning services. Whether it’s a split AC, portable air conditioning unit, or a full central air conditioning system, our expert team can help.
Call Fireside HVAC today or request a service visit online for trusted repairs and honest advice.