When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is riddled with acronyms and perplexing terms. You’ll want to get acquainted with a number of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—especially the terms that help describe energy efficiency. Let’s look at some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER means “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 more energy efficient the model is. You could be paying less on your energy bills in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’re most likely 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 helping consumers save money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must pass rigorous third-party testing and meet a specific number of requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you see 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 highest efficiency among those that are ENERGY STAR certified. These extraordinary products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products every 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 the degree of an air conditioner’s efficiency over a complete cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a designated temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings are an indication of better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency leads to more money savings and a decreased impact on the environment. If your air conditioner is getting up there in age, the SEER rating could be as low as 8, while recent, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar terms when you are looking into your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be a lot more informed by being aquainted with these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your research or if you need assistance with your air conditioner replacement, call Farris Heating & Air in Bartlesville at 918-333-0376.