When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is riddled with acronyms and confusing terms. You’ll want to get acquainted with a few of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably the terms that help describe energy efficiency. Let’s go through some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER means “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the temperature outside 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 more energy efficient the model is. You could be saving money on energy in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’re probably familiar with ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s sometimes not explained very well. ENERGY STAR was started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It was designed to protect the environment while at the same time saving consumer’s money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must pass rigorous third-party testing and meet the many requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you notice the blue ENERGY STAR label while you’re in the market 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 products with the greatest efficiency among those that are ENERGY STAR certified. These phenomenal products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products each year.
SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) represents a measurement of your air conditioner’s or heat pump’s cooling efficiency. The big difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is a measurement of an air conditioner’s efficiency over throughout the entire cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a designated temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings show the system has better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equates to more money savings and a lower impact on the environment. If your air conditioner is getting up there in age, the SEER rating could be as low as 8, while newer, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar lingo when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more knowledgeable by being aquainted with these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your quest or if you need help with your air conditioner replacement, call Holiday Heating & Air Conditioning in Ballwin at 636-206-4250 or set up an appointment online.