While the rest of the country is talking about heating systems, we’re lucky to have some mild temperatures all year round. That means we’ve got extra time to inform people in our area about the intricacies of their air conditioning systems while we prepare for the scorching temperatures next year.
The SEER rating is an energy efficiency ratio that applies to all air conditioners and heat pump systems in the United States. Being able to use this rating to its fullest extent could be your ticket to a high-efficiency heat pump or AC system that’s right for your home. Not only that, but knowing the efficiency ratio of your system compared to the newer models coming out, could be the difference between replacement and air conditioning repair in West Hollywood, CA!
So buckle up and get ready to take some notes. SEER class is about to begin!
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
Before we go into how the SEER rating can be used by homeowners in your area, we’re going to have to discuss what exactly this rating is. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, which is a rating that signifies the cooling output of a system during a typical cooling season, divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. In English, that means it’s the ratio of energy consumed to the cooling output provided.
If you’ve got a poorly performing air conditioner that’s consuming a lot of energy and providing barely any cooling power, it’s going to have a low SEER rating, while a system that’s brand new and highly efficient will have a high SEER rating.
Real World SEER Applications
So, now that we know what the SEER rating is, where is it used in our daily life? This rating has a practical application for homeowners that can be used to give you a statistical advantage when choosing a new system. If you’re looking for a highly efficient heat pump or air conditioning system, you’re going to want to find a unit that’s got a high SEER rating!
Also, the Department of Energy has specific energy conservation rules that apply to all residential HVAC systems, so you’ll want to pay attention to those when having a new system installed or getting repairs done on an old one. For example, split-system central air conditioners in California must be a minimum of 14 SEER in order for them to be in compliance with the law.
“What Does This Mean for Me?”
Well, let’s say that an amateur technician is trying to sell you a cheap air conditioning system. If they’re telling you that the particular model runs efficiently, but the SEER rating is extremely low (we’re talking 10 SEER or below) then not only is this technician lying to you, but also having that system installed could be breaking the law.
That’s why you’ll want to work with a trustworthy technician who really knows their way around SEER ratings, and who has a good source of well-manufactured air conditioners. With an investment this big, don’t gamble on something that could be hurting the environment, your wallet, and breaking the law.
Why not get your new AC set up with the pros at JMS Air Conditioning and Heating? Give us a call today!
