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 few 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 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 degree. 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 seeing lower utility bills 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 started 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 all of the requirements to become ENERGY STAR certified. So, when you spot 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 most efficient products 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 a measure 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 a complete cooling season, rather than its efficiency at a certain temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings show the system has better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency leads to more money savings and less of an impact on the environment. If you have an older air conditioner, 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 lingo when you are in the market for your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more knowledgeable by understanding 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 Lakeside Heating & Air in Chelan and Wenatchee at 509-284-4265.