With hotter summers due to climate change and expensive electricity prices due to volatile fossil fuel markets, making smart choices for keeping cool this summer is more important than ever.
When it comes to air conditioning the most efficient method of cooling is going to be installing a mini-split or heat pump air conditioner. Tax incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2022 can bring down the costs of installing a heat pump if you are the owner of the home. More information here: https://www.rewiringamerica.org/app/ira-calculator/information/heat-pump-air-conditioner-heater
Window Air Conditioners
For apartment dwellers and renters, your best option is a window air conditioner. You are going to want an air conditioner that is easy to install, efficient, quiet and effective. The least efficient units are those “portable” ones that have a hose leading to a window – don’t buy those, as they are terribly inefficient and will end up costing you more money in the long run.
Look for a unit that has inverter technology. An inverter is an energy-saving technology that eliminates wasted operation in air conditioners by efficiently controlling motor speed. Inverter motors are quieter and more efficient as they don’t have spikes in power needs, rather they maintain a constant speed.
Air leaks around the unit waste energy because the cold air escapes and hot air enters the room. A great innovation is a U-shaped design like this unit from Midea. The window comes down almost all the way to the bottom of the unit, not only securing the unit but creating a much smaller gap to fill.
- ULTRA-QUIET – The Midea U Smart Inverter AC unit is 9 times quieter than traditional units. The U-shape design uses your window to block noise outside and the high-efficiency Inverter system warrants ultra-low noise and vibration. This design allows for extremely quiet operation as low as 42 dBA – almost as quiet as a library – so you can get a restful night’s sleep or binge your favorite shows undisturbed. Controller type: Voice Control, Android, iOS.Air Flow efficiency:202.94 CFM
- MORE THAN 35% ENERGY SAVINGS – With the advanced DC Inverter technology, Midea U achieves over 35% energy savings compared to other traditional units, and it’s the first window AC to obtain the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2022 Certification. You may also get exclusive benefits from your local energy distributor.
- FLEXIBLE WINDOW OPENING – Midea U-shaped design allows your window to open, bringing fresh air into your home anytime and allowing you to maintain more of your view even when the unit is installed. The Anti-Theft Mechanism locks the closed window for added security
- SMART CONTROL – The Midea U Smart Inverter Air Conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from anywhere through the cloud using the MideaAir app on iOS or Android. You can also use voice commands throughout your house, office, or apartment using Alexa or Google Assistant.
- ROBUST INSTALLATION – Install the included quick-snap bracket, set the unit on the bracket, and secure the sidearms. After that, you are all done and ready to enjoy. Available for single-hung or double-hung windows with size: 22″-36″, minimal height at 13.75″.