Understanding Air Conditioning Ratings
Air conditioners are tested for their quality by the use of some ratings. We all want to have the best products in town, so it is important for us to have good background information on the air conditioning products we are about to purchase.
One of the best ways to check for air conditioning ratings is by checking the Energy Star label on the product. Energy Star qualified air conditioners offer best rated unit operations. With this label, it means that the air conditioning unit has higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) or Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and that the product has complied with and has even exceeded the federal government’s standards. This is because Energy Star is initiated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE).
Speaking of SEER, we always see these letters together with a number such as 6.0 SEER, 10 SEER, 12 SEER, 13 SEER, 18 SEER, or 19 SEER. This shows the measurement of how efficient the energy of the air conditioning system is. This means that the higher the SEER, the more cost effective the unit is because of its energy saving features. Also, the SEER ratings show the cooling efficiency of the air conditioner. We use the numbers to compare operating costs of various heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) products.
In January 2006, the federal government implemented the 13 SEER Law. It states that all manufacturers of HVAC components should use the SEER of 13.0 as the standard in all products. This is a challenge for them: to comply with or to exceed the standard. This is in favour of the consumers and the environment. The price of the HVAC unit may be expensive when purchased, but the overall investment is better. This is because higher SEER rated air conditioners are found to consume lesser electrical energy to operate. This feature enables consumers to have great savings and avoid high electrical bills. This feature also means that the air conditioner can function with other sensitive, electrically-driven gadgets, such as information and telecommunication equipment. It does not compete in the consumption of electrical energy.
Air conditioning ratings also include regulations and certifications. One issue today is the use of refrigerants. It was found out that Freon R22 which emits chlorofluorocarbon is dangerous to the health and to the ozone layer. So air conditioners that use the safer R410a have higher ratings.
These ratings are very essential as these climate controllers operate in residential houses and commercial buildings. And since most air conditioners are installed for long term purposes, the units should also be designed with a long lasting quality. Having an air conditioner installed is an investment. So the next time you want to upgrade, replace or repair your unit, consider those that have the highest air conditioning ratings. Though these will cost more, if you compare the cost of your electricity bills for the next few months and years, you will be saving a lot.