What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean

Are you researching the efficiency ratings of new heating and cooling systems? Perhaps you want to check the rating on your existing HVAC equipment. Regardless, you can learn the efficiency rating and expected annual operating costs by reading the yellow Energy Guide sticker around the side of the unit. We’d like to share some details about the various ratings you might read and what they mean.

What Is a SEER Rating?

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

Today, 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 past minimum stipulation of 13 SEER in the north and 14 SEER in the south, that was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This change is one part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) persistent efforts to minimize energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Nowadays, high-end air conditioners tout ratings of 26 SEER or higher, offering incredible energy savings. Unfortunately, impressive SEER ratings usually come with a higher initial cost. Which means you should look at both the initial expense and the prospects for continued savings when selecting a new air conditioning unit.

What Is an EER Rating?

While SEER ratings are more well-known, there’s a different efficiency statistic you should be aware of. It’s referred to as EER, and it is short for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This indicates the effectiveness of an air conditioner under specific operating situations. The EER rating helps you understand whether the system will support the demand on extreme summer days.

At the moment, 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. In most cases SEER and EER typically correspond, with higher ratings signifying stronger 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 entire heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) during the heating season to the rate of electricity used in watt-hours. A higher HSPF rating means a more efficient heat pump.

The minimum HSPF rating for new heat pumps is 8.8 HSPF, an improvement from the previous minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By requiring higher minimum HSPF ratings, the DOE is making it more affordable long-term for Americans to use more energy-efficient heating systems in homes and businesses across the U.S. You can always settle for the minimum, but you may want to consider a high-end heat pump with a rating of 13 HSPF or higher for the greatest performance.

What Is an AFUE Rating?

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings are an alternative estimate of heating system efficiency, but they only relate to furnaces and boilers. AFUE is a ratio of the annual heat output to the fuel used during that period. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heating unit(s).

In 2023, the minimum AFUE rating for new gas furnaces has been modified to 81. Prior to this, the southern regions had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the north required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. While you aren’t required to install anything above the minimum, you’ll spend less on your energy bills by opting for a furnace rated 95 AFUE or higher.

What Is an ENERGY STAR® Rating?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the ENERGY STAR program in 1992 to help homeowners and businesses find the most energy-efficient products available. HVAC equipment, appliances, water heaters, light fixtures, office equipment, electronics and building products that have a minimum threshold of efficiency can earn ENERGY STAR certification.

ENERGY STAR-rated products go far beyond the minimum requirements to save energy and reduce emissions without sacrificing performance or features. You might also look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which recognizes the top performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is currently overhauling the qualification requisites in the wake of the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.

Install an Efficient HVAC System

For help deciding which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is ideal for your budget, look to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can evaluate 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 popular brands, all of which satisfy or surpass the minimum efficiency requirements for 2023. We’re so convinced that you’ll be satisfied with our services that we give you a 100% satisfaction guarantee! For details or to schedule a no-cost HVAC installation estimate, please contact a Service Experts office near you.

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