When it comes to choosing an HVAC system, HVAC energy efficiency ratings play a crucial role in determining long-term savings and environmental impact. Understanding HVAC energy efficiency ratings—like SEER, AFUE, and HSPF—can help you make informed decisions that lead to lower energy costs and a more comfortable home environment. In this consumer’s guide, we’ll break down the most common ratings, explain their importance, and guide you in selecting an HVAC system that meets both your budget and energy goals. Let’s dive into the details that make HVAC energy efficiency ratings essential for every homeowner.
SEER Ratings
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it measures the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning unit, specifically, over the course of an entire season during which it is needed. The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the output output of cool air (measured in BTUs, British Thermal Units) by the total electric energy input (measured in watt-hours) during a particular time period. For the consumer, the bottom line to remember is that a higher SEER rating means a more efficient air conditioner overall.A high SEER unit indicates better HVAC energy efficiency ratings since it provides more cooling output per unit of energy.
Optimal SEER standards are set regionally– and this makes sense. A home would not demand the same cooling capacity in Montana as one would in Florida.
AFUE Ratings
AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency and measures the amount of fuel a furnace or heating device converts to produce heat. AFUE is calculated on a scale of 0-100; like SEER, the higher the AFUE, the better the system’s HVAC energy efficiency rating. There is a minimum federal standard for AFUE ratings currently set at 80%, but a unit with a rating of 90% to 93% is considered mid-efficiency, while 94% to 98% is high-efficiency.
Why Do They Matter?
When shopping for a new heating or cooling system, HVAC energy efficiency ratings are crucial to consider. High SEER and AFUE ratings mean higher energy savings and lower energy bills. Over time, these monthly savings can offset the initial cost of a new system.
Additionally, if you are concerned about environmental impact, high HVAC energy efficiency ratings allow you to purchase with confidence, knowing that your system’s energy use is minimized, which reduces negative environmental effects.
Choosing The Most Energy Efficient HVAC System For Your Home
Consider Costs, But Also Savings
Although higher SEER/AFUE units may have a higher upfront cost, the energy that they will save you over their 10 to 15-year lifespan will heavily offset this initial hit to your bank account. It’s relatively easy to calculate your potential energy savings when you compare it to your current system or others you may be trying to decide between.
Regional Considerations
Local climate will also play a large role in the decisions you make as you shop for energy-efficient HVAC systems. Potential savings in hot regions with long cooling seasons will be astronomical and worth the purchase of a high-SEER unit– and the inverse is true when it comes to furnaces.
Home Size and Demands
Your home’s square footage, room sizes, and insulation quality will also have an effect on the energy efficiency of your heating and air conditioning systems. A well-insulated home obviously retains more cool air in the summer and more warm air in the winter, easing the demands on your HVAC system. Note that if you have any insulation concerns, this will likely affect even the highest SEER/AFUE ratings.
Rely on the Air Conditioning Specialist
The Air Conditioning Specialist team is ready to answer any questions you may have about your current system’s energy efficiency or that of a new system you are looking to purchase. For more information on how to increase your system’s energy efficiency and your own savings, give us a call today!
