When you’re looking into an air conditioner replacement, you’ll find that the HVAC industry is filled to the brim with acronyms and baffling terms. You’ll want to become familiar with a number of these acronyms and other typically used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—notably the terms that help describe 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 outdoor temperature is at or above a certain level. It’s best to go with the 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’ve probably heard of ENERGY STAR certification, but it’s not usually explained very well. ENERGY STAR was created in 1992 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The goal was to protect the environment while at the same time saving consumer’s money on energy by using more energy-efficient products. Products must undergo rigorous third-party testing and meet a specific number of 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 extraordinary 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 big 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 set temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency leads to more money savings and a decreased impact on the environment. If you’ve had your air conditioner for a while, 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 more prepared 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 Air Service Co. in Muldrow at 918-212-8943.