When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is riddled with acronyms and baffling terms. You’ll want to get acquainted with a number of these acronyms and other frequently used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably the terms that help interpret 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 outdoor temperature is at or above a certain degree. 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 saving money on energy in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’re probably familiar with ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s not usually explained very well. ENERGY STAR was created 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 looking 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 most efficient products 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 major 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 mean better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equates to more money savings and less of an 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 terms when you are looking into 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 help with your air conditioner replacement, call H&C Heating and Cooling in Laurel at 301-960-3247.