If you’d like to purchase a very energy-efficient air conditioner, you should look for a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating. While all ENERGY STAR air conditioners have to meet a certain EER, the higher the EER, the more money you’ll save on your utility bills.

If you buy a central air conditioning system, you can receive a tax credit equal to 30 percent of the cost for up to $1,500 through the federal Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit. In order to qualify, your split central AC will need to have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 16 or higher. Other measures that are eligible for this tax credit include additional insulation and air sealing, doors, windows, roofing, water heaters, furnaces and more.

Updated July 16, 2010