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 become familiar with a number of these acronyms and other frequently used terms to be able to successfully research your purchase—particularly the terms that help interpret energy efficiency. Let’s go through 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 degree. Look for higher ratings on this one because the higher the EER rating is, the more energy efficient the model is. You could be seeing lower utility 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 helping consumers save 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 see the blue ENERGY STAR label while you’re looking for an air conditioner replacement, you’ll know it’ll 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 exceptional 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 major 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 certain temperature level. Like the EER ratings, higher the SEER ratings are an indication of better energy efficiency. More energy efficiency equates to 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 terms when you are researching your air conditioner replacement, but you’ll be more knowledgeable by knowing 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 Mayeuxs AC & Heating in Norco and St. Charles Parish at (985) 764-2426.