When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is full of acronyms and baffling terms. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with a number of these acronyms and other frequently used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—especially the terms that help describe energy efficiency. Let’s go through some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER is an acronym for “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the outdoor temperature is at or above a certain degree. It’s best to go with the higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the greater the energy efficiency. You could be saving money on energy 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. It was designed to protect the environment while saving money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must pass rigorous third-party testing and meet all of the requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you notice the blue ENERGY STAR label while you’re looking for an air conditioner replacement, you can count on it saving you money.
ENERGY STAR - Most Efficient
The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation recognizes the products with the highest efficiency among those that are ENERGY STAR certified. These exceptional products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products every year.
SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measure of your air conditioner’s or heat pump’s cooling efficiency. The big difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER measures 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 show the system has better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equals more money savings and less of an impact on the environment. If you have an older air conditioner, the SEER rating could be as low as 8, while current, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
It’s almost certain you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon when you are researching your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more prepared by understanding these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your search or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc in Phoenix at 602-832-7808.