What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean
Are you researching the efficiency ratings of new air conditioning and furnace systems? Or are you interested in knowing the rating on your existing HVAC unit. Either way, you can determine the efficiency rating and expected yearly operating costs by reading the yellow Energy Guide tag around the side of the unit. Below are some facts about the multiple ratings you might find and what they mean.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating of air conditioning efficiency. The SEER rating represents the cooling output of an air conditioning unit over an entire cooling season, divided by the amount of energy utilized during that period. A higher SEER rating indicates greater energy efficiency and lower energy bills.
As of 2023, the minimum SEER rating for recently manufactured air conditioners is 14 SEER in the northern U.S. and 15 SEER in the southern U.S. This is an improvement from the previous minimum expectation of 13 SEER in the north and 14 SEER in the south, which was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This adjustment is one part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) continuous efforts to minimize energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Nowadays, top-quality air conditioners boast ratings of 26 SEER or higher, offering fantastic energy savings. However, exceptional SEER ratings normally come with a higher up-front cost. This means you should think about both the initial financial investment and the prospects for ongoing savings when choosing a new air conditioning unit.
What Is an EER Rating?
Even though SEER ratings get more attention, AC systems have a different efficiency metric you ought to know. It’s referred to as EER, and it is short for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This conveys the performance of an air conditioner under specified operating circumstances. The EER rating helps you understand how the system will support the demand on extreme summer days.
Presently, only the southwest area of the nation has a minimum EER rating of 12.2 EER for residential central air conditioners. Maximum ratings top out at about 14 EER. Consider that SEER and EER for the most part correspond, with higher ratings signifying greater overall performance.
What Is an HSPF Rating?
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings are measurements of the energy efficiency of air-source heat pumps once in heating mode. HSPF is a percentage of the entire heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) throughout the heating season to the rate of electricity used in watt-hours. A higher HSPF rating suggests a more efficient heat pump.
The minimum HSPF rating for new heat pumps is 8.8 HSPF, an increase from the preceeding minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By requiring higher minimum HSPF ratings, the DOE wants to motivate people to use more energy-efficient heating systems in homes and businesses across the U.S. Settling for less efficiency remains an option, but you may want to consider a high-end heat pump with a rating of 13 HSPF or higher for the best performance.
What Is an AFUE Rating?
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings are an alternative standard of heating system efficiency, but they only pertain to furnaces and boilers. AFUE is a percentage of the yearly heat output to the energy consumed during that period. The greater the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heating unit(s).
In 2023, the minimum AFUE rating for new gas furnaces changed to 81. Formerly, the south and southwest had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the north required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. Even though you’re not required to buy a system with ratings above the minimum, you’ll spend less on your utility bills by selecting a furnace rated 95 AFUE or higher.
What Is an ENERGY STAR® Rating?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched the ENERGY STAR program in the early 1990s to help homeowners and businesses discover the most energy-efficient equipment and appliances available. HVAC equipment, appliances, water heaters, light fixtures, office equipment, electronics and building products that meet or exceed specific criteria can earn ENERGY STAR certification.
ENERGY STAR-rated products go far beyond the minimum specifications to save energy and decrease emissions without limiting performance or features. You can also look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which recognizes the best performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is presently revising the qualification criteria given the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.
Install an Efficient HVAC System
For help identifying which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is appropriate for your budget, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can review your situation and assist you in making an informed purchase. We have a wide range of products from today’s top brands, all of which satisfy or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements for 2023. We’re so sure you’ll be satisfied with our services that we give you a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To learn more or to schedule a no-cost HVAC installation quote, please contact a Service Experts office near you.
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