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 get acquainted with a few of these acronyms and other typically used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably the terms that help explain energy efficiency. Let’s go through some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER means “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the temperature outside is at or above a certain temperature. 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 probably familiar with ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s commonly 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 undergo 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’ll know it’ll save 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 extraordinary products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products each 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 measures an air conditioner’s efficiency over throughout 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 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 current, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon 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 quest or if you need assistance with your air conditioner replacement, call Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. in Muskogee at 918-682-8238.