When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is riddled with acronyms and confusing terms. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with a few of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably the terms that help explain 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 level. You’ll want to go with the higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the greater 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 commonly not explained very well. ENERGY STAR was started in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The objective was to protect the environment while at the same time saving consumer’s money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must pass rigorous third-party testing and meet a specific number of 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 be certain it will save 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 extraordinary 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 big difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER measures an air conditioner’s efficiency over a complete 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 decreased 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 looking into 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 quest or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call Titan Heating & Air Conditioning in Central Point at 541-286-6617.