What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean

Are you comparing the efficiency ratings of new HVAC systems? Or are you interested in knowing the rating on your existing HVAC unit. Regardless, you can learn the efficiency rating and estimated annual operating costs by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label along the side of the unit. Here’s more information about the different ratings you might read and what they mean.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a way of measuring air conditioning efficiency. The SEER rating signifies the cooling output of an AC unit over the entire cooling season, divided by the amount of energy used within that time frame. A higher SEER rating implies greater energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

As of 2023, the minimum SEER rating for the latest air conditioners is 14 SEER in the northern U.S. and 15 SEER in the southern U.S. This is an improvement from the previous minimum expectation of 13 SEER in the north and 14 SEER in the south, that was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This adjustment demonstrates the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) persistent efforts to decrease energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Nowadays, premium air conditioners claim ratings of 26 SEER or higher, delivering fantastic energy savings. However, outstanding SEER ratings normally come with a higher initial cost. This simply means you should think about both the initial financial investment and the prospects for long-term savings when deciding on a new air conditioning unit.

What Is an EER Rating?

Even though SEER ratings are more known to consumers, AC systems have an additional efficiency measurement you should be aware of. It’s known as EER, and it stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rating suggests the efficiency of an cooling system under specified operating situations. The EER rating allows you to understand how the system will handle the demand on the hottest summer days.

Currently, only the southwest area of the nation has a minimum EER rating of 12.2 EER for residential central air conditioners. Maximum ratings top out at about 14 EER. In most cases SEER and EER for the most part correspond, with higher ratings meaning greater 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 ratio of the overall heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) over the heating season to the amount of electricity used in watt-hours. A higher HSPF rating suggests a more efficient heat pump.

The minimum HSPF rating for new heat pumps is 8.8 HSPF, a boost from the prior minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By demanding 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 throughout the U.S. The bare minimum is always an option, but it’s a wise choice 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 yet another measure of heating system efficiency, but they apply to furnaces and boilers. AFUE is a ratio of the yearly heat output to the energy utilized during that period. The greater the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heating unit(s).

In 2023, the minimum AFUE rating for new gas furnaces was revised to 81. Formerly, the several southern states had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the north required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. Although there are no laws demanding that you install a system with ratings above the minimum, you’ll save 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 during the Clinton Administration to help homeowners and businesses discover the most energy-efficient equipment and appliances 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 above and beyond the minimum specifications to save energy and cut down on emissions without compromising performance or features. You can also look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which highlights the top performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is presently updating the qualification requisites given the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.

Install an Efficient HVAC System

For help deciding which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is right for your budget, count on Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can assess your circumstances and aid you in making an informed decision. 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 confident you’ll be happy with our services that we give you a 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to schedule a free HVAC installation quote, please contact a Service Experts office near you.