When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is filled to the brim with acronyms and baffling terms. You’ll want to become familiar with a number of these acronyms and other frequently used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—especially the terms that help interpret energy efficiency. Let’s look at 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. 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 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 started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It was designed to protect the environment while saving money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must pass rigorous third-party testing and meet the many 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 can count on it saving 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) represents a measurement of your air conditioner’s or heat pump’s cooling efficiency. The major difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER measures an air conditioner’s efficiency over the entire cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a designated temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency leads to 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 recent, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon when you are researching your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more prepared by understanding these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your research or if you need help with your air conditioner replacement, call Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc in Oxford at 662-281-1231.