Austin may enjoy some pleasant spring and fall temperatures, but most area homeowners rely on heating and cooling systems to keep them comfortable during extremely hot summers and chilly winters. A great HVAC system can certainly boost home comfort, but many homeowners have to balance their comfort needs against their utility budgets. Thankfully, meeting comfort needs and staying within budget is possible when you pay close attention to HVAC efficiency ratings.
Heating & Air Conditioning Efficiency Ratings
Efficiency ratings are designed to provide consumers with accurate information about the costs of using various home appliances. Efficiency ratings are also used by the municipal, state and federal governments to determine if homeowners can qualify for special incentives or tax credits when buying new HVAC equipment. Before shopping, take time to familiarize yourself with these common HVAC ratings:
• EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings are used to describe the efficiency of air conditioners. Units with ratings of ten or greater tend to be the most efficient.
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings are used to describe the cooling efficiency of heat pumps and air conditioners. Units with ratings of 13 or greater offer very efficient service.
• ENERGY STAR designations are given only to those heating and cooling units that meet stringent government efficiency standards. ENERGY STAR ratings are also used for a wide variety of non-HVAC home appliances.
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings describe the heating efficiency of heat pumps and heaters. Units with ratings of eight or greater are considered very efficient.
• AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings describe how much fuel a furnace or boiler wastes in order to produce heat. Units with ratings of 90 or higher are considered efficient.
It’s a good idea to use an energy calculator to determine the savings you’ll likely see when choosing between equipment with different efficiency ratings.
Be an Informed Shopper With Efficiency Ratings
Understanding efficiency ratings allows consumers to make wise purchasing decisions and maintain a high degree of comfort. Understanding efficiency ratings is also key to understanding whether or not HVAC equipment purchases will help you qualify for rebates, incentive programs or tax credits.
Austin homeowners can also benefit from Austin Energy efficiency programs designed to offer homeowners the assistance needed to make energy-efficient upgrades on their properties.
Navigating efficiency ratings and choosing the right equipment for your home can be difficult. The experienced pros at ABC Home & Commercial Services will be happy to help you understand efficiency ratings and choose the right heating and cooling equipment for your home. Call us today to learn more, or visit our website to schedule service.