When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is riddled 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 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. Look for higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the more energy efficient the model is. You could be seeing lower utility bills 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 started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The goal was to protect the environment while helping consumers save 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 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 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 most notable difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is the degree of 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 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 newer, more efficient models range from ratings of 13 – 23.
It’s almost certain 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 being aquainted with these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your research or if you need assistance with your air conditioner replacement, call MPC Heating & Cooling in Chadron at 308-832-4321.