Which method can significantly improve an A/C system's energy efficiency?

Regular maintenance and upgrading to a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) unit are key strategies for enhancing the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system. Performing regular maintenance ensures that components such as filters, coils, and drain lines operate optimally. Clogged filters and dirty coils can cause the system to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, leading to higher energy consumption.

Upgrading to a higher SEER unit is crucial as it measures the efficiency of the cooling output during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. Units with a higher SEER rating consume less energy to provide the same level of cooling compared to lower SEER alternatives. This means that while initial costs may be higher for such units, the energy savings over time can be substantial, combined with lower operating costs and a reduced environmental impact.

Therefore, adopting these practices can lead to both immediate and long-term benefits in energy efficiency and overall performance of the A/C system.