When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is filled to the brim with acronyms and confusing terms. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with some of these acronyms and other typically used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—especially the terms that help describe 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 temperature outside is at or above a certain temperature. 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 sometimes not explained very well. ENERGY STAR was created in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The objective was to protect the environment while helping consumers save money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must undergo 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’ll know it’ll save 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 exceptional 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 big 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 certain 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 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.
It’s almost certain you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar terms when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more knowledgeable by knowing these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your search or if you need help with your air conditioner replacement, call 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. in Lake Forest at 949-204-0859.