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 familiarize yourself with some of these acronyms and other common terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—especially the terms that help describe energy efficiency. Let’s look at some of these terms.
What is EER?
EER means “energy-efficiency ratio.” It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner when the outside temperature is at or above a certain temperature. Look for higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the higher the energy efficiency. You could be paying less on your energy bills in no time.
ENERGY STAR® Certification
You’re most likely familiar with ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s not usually explained very well. ENERGY STAR was established 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 endure rigorous third-party testing and meet a specific number of 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 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 exceptional products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products year after 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 most notable difference between SEER ratings and EER ratings is that SEER is a measurement of an air conditioner’s efficiency over a complete 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 leads to more money savings and less of an 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.
Of course you’ll find more acronyms and unfamiliar jargon when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be a lot more informed by understanding these terms. If you have any questions about terminology you come across in your search or if you need advice about your air conditioner replacement, call GV Heating & Air in Crystal and Twin Cities at 763-535-2000.