HVAC Energy Measurements: Understanding These Can Save You Money

HVAC Energy Measurements: Understanding These Can Save You Money

Choosing the most energy-efficient air conditioning and heating system is more important than ever, as Southern California utility prices continue to rise. However, deciding which cooling or heating system is the most efficient is not always as easy as it sounds. HVAC energy measurements can sometimes be confusing.

HVAC energy measurements
The heating, ventilation and cooling industry (HVAC) uses a variety of measuring scales to indicate the energy efficiency of residential heating and cooling systems. The Energy Star rating system, set up by the US Department of Energy (DOE) in 1992, gives consumers a way to tell at a glance if an appliance meets the DOE’s minimum efficiency standards. Look for a large, yellow sticker on the side of the unit. This system also lets you easily compare two products made by different manufacturers.

The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) gives consumers an idea of how well a furnace performs. This number is expressed in a percentage. For instance, an AFUE of 90 indicates that the heating system is 90 percent efficient.

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures the cooling efficiency of heat pumps and air conditioning system. The higher the ratio, the more efficient the unit. To qualify as an Energy Star-rated appliance, a unit must have a rating of at least 12, but there are systems on the market with ratios of up to 20.

The heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) measures the efficiency of heat pumps. The number is the total heat produced by the pump (in Btus) during a single heating season.

If you need help deciphering HVAC energy measurements or in choosing the comfort system that’s right for your home and family, let Air-Tro Inc.in Monrovia guide you through the process of evaluating, ordering and installing a new central air or heating system. We’ve been helping Southern California homeowners with their heating and cooling needs since 1969. Call us at (626) 357-3535 to set up a free consultation.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Los Angeles, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about energy measurements and other HVAC topics, visit our website.

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