Air Conditioning technology was first invented and patented by Willis Carrier in 1906, and by 1928 the first residential air conditioning system was introduced. Since then a lot has happened, units are now larger and instead of a single unit cooling only one room at a time, one split system can cool the entire house. New residential units are quieter, more cost efficient and much better designed.

About one-sixth of all electricity generated in the United States is used for air conditioning buildings.  The efficiency of central air conditioning units is governed by U.S. law and regulated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).  Every air conditioning unit is assigned an efficiency rating known as its “seasonal energy efficiency ratio” (SEER). The SEER is defined as the total cooling output (in British thermal units or Btu) provided by the unit during its normal annual usage period divided by its total energy input (in watt-hours) during the same period.  Air conditioning efficiency ratings are measured in SEER, with 10 SEER the lowest and 15 SEER the highest.

In 2003, after finalizing a seven-year public review process, the Clinton Administration improved the air conditioner efficiency standard from SEER 10, which was established by Congress in 1987, to SEER 13. The change from SEER 10 to SEER 13 represented a 30 percent improvement in energy efficiency.  Congress’s bill made all 10 SEER units obsolete by the year 2004.  The Clinton Administration decision required all new air conditioning equipment sold in the United States to comply with the SEER 13 standard by January 2006.  Since Energy Star products are the premier efficiency equipment, Energy Star standards have also changed and are now set at a minimum of 13 SEER.

A SEER 13 standard will also accomplish more in reducing fossil fuel consumption and limiting air pollution. The construction of 39 400-megawatt power plants will be avoided by adopting the SEER 13 standard, which will reduce smog forming nitrous oxides (NOx) emissions by up to 85,000 metric tons and cutting greenhouse gas emissions (the gases responsible for global warming) by up to 33 million metric tons (Mt) of carbon.

Air conditioning refrigeration gases are also changing. Environmental studies have found that the emissions of CFCs from standard Freon R22 refrigerant causes holes in the ozone layer. This prompted Congress to pass a second bill to eliminate the standard Freon refrigerant by 2010. This gas will be replaced by a more ozone friendly refrigerant called Puron or R4 10 refrigerant. Our manufacturers Bryant & United Technology now incorporate this type gas in all their residential air conditioning units.

For more information about a specific air conditioner, click an image below:

Bryant: Model 550A 13 SEER Puron Energy Star	Model 552A 12 SEER Puron
Gibson: 13 SEER R-22	Rheem:   Model 13 SEER R-22
High-Wall Ductless Split Systems:	Eye-Pleasing Design: These compact units feature an attractive design. They fit easily where other units won't...and they blend beautifully with any room decor. Remarkably Quiet: Every HM Series model is engineered to be super-quiet. The cross-flow fan is optimized to deliver balanced airflow that's easy on the ears. Remote Makes It Easy: The unit's LCD wireless remote puts system control right in the palm of your hand. You can change settings easily from the comfort of your favorite chair. Enjoy Natural Breeze: Our ductless split systems produce what feels like a gentle spring breeze - the most refreshing airflow you've ever felt indoors! The air swing automatically directs the vents back and forth, while a built-in microprocessor continuously adjusts fan speed to ensure maximum comfort around the clock. Computerized Comfort Control: Just a touch of the Sleep Mode button automatically programs air conditioner operation, indoor fan speed and temperature settings for a more comfortable sleep. The unit's 24-hour on/off timer offers money saving convenience Features: Heat Pump and Cooling Models Center Display Auto Restart after Power Interruption Soft Dry, Jet Cool, Advanced Dehumidification LCD Wireless Remote Low Voltage Controlled Evaporator Sleep Mode 24 Hour Timer Washable Mesh/Deodorizing Air Filter Auto Fan Speed Control 1-year Limited Parts Warranty 5-year Limited Compressor Warranty

  2005 Energy Star High-Efficiency Equipment Overview:

As a New York State NYSERDA Energy Star Contractor we sell and service high-efficiency Energy Star equipment which saves you money while increasing comfort.

Energy Star Incentives:
As a certified participating contractor in the NYSERDA New York Energy Smart Program we are able to offer our customers low interest financing , 50% grant subsidies, and/or 10% cash payback incentives on all Energy Star equipment purchased and installed though this program.