When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is filled to the brim with acronyms and perplexing terms. You’ll want to become familiar with some of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably 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 temperature outside is at or above a certain level. Look for higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the higher the energy efficiency. You could be saving money on energy in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’re most likely familiar with ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s commonly not explained very well. ENERGY STAR was established 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 undergo 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 shopping 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 exceptional products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products each 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 throughout the entire 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 equates to more money savings and a decreased impact on the environment. If you have an older air conditioner, the SEER rating could be as low as 8, while current, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
You’ll certainly find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon when you are researching your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more prepared by knowing 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 Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. in Manassas at 703-260-1148.