When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is full of acronyms and confusing 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 explain energy efficiency. Let’s learn some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER stands for “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the temperature outside is at or above a certain degree. Look for higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the greater the energy efficiency. You could be seeing lower utility 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 established in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It was designed to protect the environment while helping consumers save 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 can count on it saving 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 every 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 most notable difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is the degree of an air conditioner’s efficiency over a complete cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a certain temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equates to more money savings and a decreased 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.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar terms when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more knowledgeable by understanding these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your search or if you need help with your air conditioner replacement, call Strine's Heating & Air Conditioning in York at 717-383-4479.