When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is full of acronyms and perplexing terms. You’ll want to get acquainted with some 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 look at 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 outdoor temperature 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 seeing lower utility bills 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 started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The objective was 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 notice 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 products with the greatest efficiency among those that are ENERGY STAR certified. These phenomenal 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 big difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER measures an air conditioner’s efficiency over the entire cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a set 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 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 a lot more informed by being aquainted with these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your quest or if you need assistance with your air conditioner replacement, call Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning in Bishop at 760-784-9034.