When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is filled to the brim with acronyms and perplexing terms. You’ll want to get acquainted with some of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—particularly the terms that help explain energy efficiency. Let’s look at some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER stands for “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the outdoor temperature is at or above a certain level. You’ll want to go with the higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the greater the energy efficiency. You could be paying less on your energy bills in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’ve probably heard of ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s sometimes not explained very well. ENERGY STAR was started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The objective was to protect the environment while at the same time saving consumer’s money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must undergo rigorous third-party testing and meet a specific number of requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you notice the blue ENERGY STAR label while you’re shopping for an air conditioner replacement, you’ll be certain it will save you money.
ENERGY STAR - Most Efficient
The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation recognizes the most efficient products among those that are ENERGY STAR certified. These exceptional products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products each year.
SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the degree of your air conditioner’s or heat pump’s cooling efficiency. The major difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is the degree of an air conditioner’s efficiency over the entire cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a designated temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equals more money savings and less of an impact on the environment. If you’ve had your air conditioner for a while, the SEER rating could be as low as 8, while newer, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
You’ll certainly find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon when you are looking into your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be a lot more informed by knowing these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your research or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning in Pflugerville at 512-355-1482.