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 some 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 stands 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’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. The goal was to protect the environment while saving money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must endure 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 can count on it saving 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 phenomenal 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 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 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 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 recent, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
You’ll certainly find more acronyms and unfamiliar terms when you are looking into 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 research or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call Select Comfort Systems Heating & Air Conditioning in West Valley City at 801-305-4777.