What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean

Are you researching the efficiency ratings of new HVAC systems? Perhaps you’re just curious to understand the rating on your current HVAC system. In either case, you can learn the efficiency rating and estimated yearly operating costs by looking at the yellow Energy Guide tag along the side of the unit. We’d like to share some details about the multiple ratings you might read and what they mean.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating of air conditioning efficiency. The SEER rating is a calculation of the cooling output of an AC unit over a full cooling season, divided by the amount of energy used within that time frame. A higher SEER rating implies better energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

Presently, 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 increase from the old minimum stipulation of 13 SEER in the north and 14 SEER in the south, that was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This change reflects the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) ongoing efforts to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Nowadays, premium air conditioners tout ratings of 26 SEER or higher, delivering remarkable energy savings. However, exceptional SEER ratings usually come with a higher initial cost. Which means you should give some thought to both the initial investment and the potential for ongoing savings when deciding on a new air conditioning unit.

What Is an EER Rating?

While SEER ratings are more well-known, cooling systems have another efficiency metric you should know about. It’s referred to as EER, and it stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This indicates the efficiency of an cooling system under distinct operating situations. The EER rating enables you to understand if the system will keep up with demand on those very hot summer days.

Currently, only the southwest area of the nation has a minimum EER rating of 12.2 EER for residential central air conditioners. The highest ratings top out at about 14 EER. Most of the time SEER and EER for the most part correspond, with higher ratings meaning 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 when in heating mode. HSPF is a percentage of the total heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) during the heating season to the rate of electricity used in watt-hours. A higher HSPF rating indicates a more efficient heat pump.

The minimum HSPF rating for new heat pumps is 8.8 HSPF, a boost from the preceeding minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By demanding higher minimum HSPF ratings, the DOE hopes to encourage the use of more energy-efficient heating systems in homes and businesses across the U.S. The bare minimum is always an option, but you may want to invest in 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 yet another measure of heating system efficiency, but they only pertain to furnaces and boilers. AFUE is a proportion of the annual heat output to the fuel used during that period. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heating system.

In 2023, the minimum AFUE rating for new gas furnaces has been modified to 81. Formerly, the several southern states had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the north required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. Although there are no laws demanding that you install a system with ratings above the minimum, you’ll spend less on your energy bills by choosing a furnace rated 95 AFUE or higher.

What Is an ENERGY STAR® Rating?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established 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 requirements to save energy and decrease emissions without limiting performance or features. Additionally, you can look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which identifies the best performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is currently overhauling the qualification requirements in light of the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.

Install an Efficient HVAC System

For help determining which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is ideal for your budget, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can assess your HVAC challenges and aid you in making an informed choice. We can provide you with a wide range of products from today’s most reliable brands, all of which meet or surpass the minimum efficiency requirements for 2023. We’re so sure you’ll be satisfied with our services that we provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee! For details or to schedule a free HVAC installation quote, please contact a Service Experts office near you.

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