What Is a Good Energy Rating for Air Conditioners? A Complete Guide by Climate Green Melbourne

 Choosing the right air conditioner involves more than selecting a brand or deciding where to install it — the energy rating is one of the most important factors that determines how much you’ll spend on electricity and how efficiently your home stays comfortable.

With rising power prices and Victoria pushing toward more energy-efficient homes, understanding energy ratings can help you make a smarter, more cost-effective choice. In this guide, Climate Green Melbourne explains what makes a “good” energy rating and how to choose the most efficient cooling and heating system for your home.



What Exactly Is an Energy Rating?

Air conditioners in Australia use the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL).
This label gives you instant information about:

  • Cooling star rating

  • Heating star rating

  • Annual energy use in your local climate zone

  • Noise levels

  • Model and capacity details

Since Melbourne falls into the Cool/Temperate region, the heating efficiency rating is especially important.

More stars = lower energy consumption + cheaper running costs.

What Is a “Good” Energy Rating for an Air Conditioner?

✔ Cooling Efficiency

A good cooling rating is 4 stars or higher.

✔ Heating Efficiency (Most important in Victoria)

A good heating rating is 4.5 stars or more, especially because Victorian winters require longer heating hours.

High-rated ACs are designed to use significantly less power while delivering more consistent comfort.

Energy Rating Guide (Simple Breakdown)

Star RatingPerformance LevelIdeal For
⭐–⭐⭐Low efficiencyBaseline models, short-term use
⭐⭐⭐–⭐⭐⭐½ModerateLight usage or small rooms
⭐⭐⭐⭐–⭐⭐⭐⭐½GoodMajority of Melbourne homes
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐+ExcellentLowest running costs & best performance

Why Energy Ratings Matter for Victorian Homes

Lower Power Bills

Higher-rated systems consume less electricity, reducing heating and cooling costs significantly throughout the year.

More Efficient in Cold Weather

Modern heat pumps with high heating star ratings perform exceptionally well in chilly Melbourne winters.

Environmentally Friendly

Efficient air conditioners use fewer resources and reduce your carbon footprint.

Eligible for Victorian Rebates

High-efficiency ACs often qualify for Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates — especially when installed by an accredited provider like Climate Green.

Quieter Performance

Better technology often means reduced noise inside and outside the home.

Reverse-Cycle Air Conditioners: The Most Efficient Choice

Reverse-cycle ACs (heat pumps) have some of the highest energy ratings on the market. They:

  • Provide both heating and cooling

  • Deliver 3–5 times more heat per unit of electricity

  • Work efficiently even in low outdoor temperatures

  • Lower annual running costs compared to gas heating or older ACs

This makes them the top pick for most Victorian households.

Energy Rating + Rebates = Bigger Savings

Climate Green helps homeowners claim eligible rebates for high-efficiency AC installations through:

✔ Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU)
✔ Heat Pump Heating & Cooling Rebates
✔ Solar Victoria support (if installed with solar)

Our team handles the paperwork and ensures the system meets all compliance requirements.

What Rating Should You Choose? Climate Green’s Recommendations

For Bedrooms / Study

4–4.5 stars cooling
4.5+ stars heating

For Living Areas

4.5–5+ stars heating and cooling

For Multi-Head or Whole Home Systems

Aim for higher heating star ratings to minimise winter costs.

Climate Green provides free assessments to recommend the most efficient system for your home layout and usage.

How to Read the Zoned Energy Rating Label (ZERL)

Look for:

Star Rating

Quick indicator of efficiency.

Blue Section

Cooling efficiency in your climate.

Red Section

Heating efficiency (critical for Melbourne).

kWh Consumption

Annual electricity usage estimate.

Noise Levels

Lower numbers mean quieter operation.

Final Word: High Energy Ratings = Better Savings & Comfort

A good energy rating is one of the best ways to reduce your energy bills, maximise comfort, and future-proof your home. When paired with expert installation and available rebates, upgrading to a high-efficiency system becomes a smart long-term investment.

Climate Green Melbourne helps homeowners select the right high-rated system, handle rebate processing, and ensure professional, compliant installation every time.

Upgrade to a High-Efficiency AC with Climate Green

✔ Accredited VEU Provider
✔ Expert installation across Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo & Ballarat
✔ Eligible for government rebates
✔ Fast & professional service

📞 1300 001 690
📧 info@climategreen.com.au
🌐 www.climategreen.com.au


Location: Melbourne VIC, Australia

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