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 few of these acronyms and other typically used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—particularly the terms that help explain energy efficiency. Let’s learn 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 temperature. 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 paying less on your energy bills in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’ve probably heard of ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s not usually explained very well. ENERGY STAR was established 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 all of the requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you spot 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 phenomenal 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 major difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is a measurement 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 equals more money savings and a lower 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.
It’s almost certain you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar lingo when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be a lot more informed by understanding these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your quest or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call The Frazier Company in Omaha at 402-628-0206.