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 get acquainted with a number of these acronyms and other typically used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—particularly the terms that help explain energy efficiency. Let’s go through some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER is an acronym for “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the outside temperature is at or above a certain level. You’ll want to go with the 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’ve probably heard of 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 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 looking 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 year after year.
SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the degree 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 are an indication of better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equates to 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 looking into your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be a lot more informed by being aquainted with 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 Solar Air Inc. in Fort Lauderdale at 954-320-7398.