# The Art of Cooling for 100 Years On

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/07/the-art-of-cooling-for-100-years-on/
- Published: 2016-07-21T01:11:06-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

​Air conditioners or an AC unit has become an indispensable comfort in the modern
world. With increasing temperatures and expanding population, we have [energy](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/08/cooling-your-home-with-central-air-conditioning/)
issues. So clearly modern man has adapted to survive the summers using this very
useful little invention.

#### **The SEER Rating**

The SEER rating refers to the energy efficiency of the central air conditioning 
unit. New units must comply with regulations and standards set for A/C units – anything
manufactured after January 26th, 2006 must achieve a SEER rating of at least 13.

Older units sometimes have ratings less than 6.

#### **Optional Fan-Only Operation

Check for “fan only” operation. This option lets you run the fan without pushing
coolant through the system, saving you a substantial amount of money at night. You
can simply circulate air, which might be all you need if it’s cool outside.

#### **Split Ductless Systems

Split ductless systems are for older homes that don’t have ductwork, or for homes
where installing ductwork is impractical. These systems consist of air conditioning
units in each room, with vents set up behind the wall, blowing cold air into the
room.

They tend to be more expensive to install than a central unit, but it may also be
the only practical option available to you.

#### **Hiring The Right Contractor**

Hiring the right contractor can make all the difference. A contractor who bids on
your work should show you verification of bonding and insurance. Never do business
with someone who is not bonded and insured. Check with the local BBB and see if 
there are any outstanding complaints against the company.

Here’s a few of the key takeways, read on to our infographic check out the full 
infographic for more details:

 * AC units were switched on at an average temperature of 24.2°C.
 * 62% of people studied purchased air conditioning primarily for cooling
 * 31% of air conditioning owners had a maintenance contract in place.

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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