Improving the efficiency and managing the energy use of residential air conditioners helps to:
- reduce the running costs of air conditioners
- better manage the growth in South Australia's peak electricity demand
- reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by air conditioner use.
Energy efficiency requirements for residential-size air conditioners
By law, certain types of air conditioners must meet national Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) before they can be sold in Australia. They include:
- split systems
- window wall units
- ducted refrigerated air conditioners up to 65 kilowatts (kW) in capacity.
MEPS don't apply to evaporative or portable air conditioners.
An efficient air conditioner requires less electricity to cool an area. This is particularly beneficial on hot days when cooling is linked to high demands for electricity.
MEPS can also be applied to equipment that affects the efficiency of appliances, such as ductwork.
For more information about the MEPS requirements see the Energy Rating website.
Related information
On this site
Energy efficiency requirements for new homes
Other websites
- YourHome - Australian Government advice about heating and cooling options
- Heating and Cooling - energy.gov.au (Australian Government)
