Table of Contents
Toggle
You are passionate about reducing your carbon footprint and protecting the planet, but you also love your AC, especially when the heat and humidity of summer weigh you down. Is it possible to have your cake and eat it too? H & H has all the tips you need to live an energy-efficient lifestyle and remain comfortable year-round in Delaware County, Chester County and throughout the Philadelphia area.
Looking for a reliable way to spot energy-efficient air conditioners? The ENERGY STAR® label, backed by the U.S. government, highlights products that meet high standards for efficiency and performance—without sacrificing cooling power.
Want to dig deeper into what ENERGY STAR really means for your home comfort and energy savings? Check out our ENERGY STAR guide.
If your air conditioner is more than ten years old, upgrading to a newer, energy efficient air conditioner can shrink your utility costs and carbon footprint by 20–40 percent. When you start shopping, focus on three essentials.
SEER2 ratings make choosing an efficient system simpler, as do ENERGY STAR® labels for heating and cooling equipment. The higher the SEER2 number, the less electricity the unit consumes. Systems built 10 + years ago may be rated 10 SEER or below. The minimum allowed today is 14 SEER2, but a rating above 16 SEER2 is preferable for long-term savings. Some traditional split and packaged units top 20 SEER2, and ductless mini-splits can exceed 25 SEER2.
Want help choosing the best SEER rating for your home and budget? Check out our guide to SEER ratings for more insights.
A system with a variable-speed blower or inverter compressor automatically adjusts output, reducing energy consumption. Many models include “fan-only” modes that provide gentle air movement without running the compressor, creating free, natural cooling on mild spring evenings.
Heating and air conditioning units must be properly sized to ensure optimal performance. An undersized or oversized system can slash efficiency by up to 30 percent, inflate utility bills and shorten equipment life. An experienced HVAC contractor will perform load calculations that account for your home’s square footage, layout, insulation level, window orientation and the humid climate of Southeastern PA.
Even the best equipment performs poorly if installed incorrectly. A quality job should include properly sealed ductwork, verified refrigerant charge and airflow balanced for consistent temperatures throughout your home.
How you use and maintain your AC plays a huge role in monthly costs. Maximize the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems with these simple habits.
Pairing your unit with a smart programmable thermostat gives you precise temperature control and automatically adjusts settings when you are at work or away on vacation. Studies show savings of 8–10 percent per year.
Dusty, clogged filters force your system to work harder. Keep spare filters on hand and change them every 60–90 days or more often if you have pets or live near busy South Jersey roadways.
Dirty coils and a low refrigerant charge can steal efficiency. Schedule an annual tune-up each spring as part of our air conditioner maintenance. During the visit a technician cleans coils, tightens electrical connections and verifies pressures.
Close blinds on west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day, add attic insulation to R-38, and seal air leaks around windows and doors. These small improvements reduce heat gain, letting your AC cycle off sooner.
Pennsylvania utilities want to help you save. Programs such as Pennsylvania’s Energy Efficiency Incentives and the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder often provide cash back for installing equipment with qualifying SEER2 ratings.
Pennsylvania residents may qualify for several incentive programs (as of August, 2025):
Similar incentives are available in Northern Delaware and South Jersey through utilities like Delmarva Power and New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, consistent with the regional approach to supporting energy efficiency.
Under the Inflation Reduction Act, homeowners can claim a 30% tax credit on qualifying energy-efficient HVAC equipment through 2032, including:
Rebate forms may look overwhelming at first glance. Our office staff files hundreds of applications every year, so we know exactly which model numbers qualify and how to prepare supporting documents like proof of purchase and AHRI certificates. Let us handle the paperwork while you enjoy the savings.
Sometimes a repair makes sense, but ongoing problems may indicate it is time for an upgrade. If you face constant service calls or rooms that never feel cold, explore a replacement:
A modern, energy-efficient HVAC system paired with proper duct upgrades often costs less to run than continuing to nurse an aging unit.
Cooling efficiency does not end with the mechanical system. Everyday choices make a difference.
Each of these ideas trims a little energy use. Together, they add up to meaningful savings across Philadelphia County and the surrounding region.
Still have questions? Visit our AC installation upgrades guide for a deeper dive, then schedule an air conditioning installation consultation. Need service right away? Our crew tackles central air repair and emergency ac repair across Delaware County, Chester County and South Jersey. Speak to our HVAC pros today and discover how easy it is to stay cool, comfortable and energy smart all summer long.
Blog Last Updated on September 25, 2025
BOOK NOW