Important HVAC System Ratings and Labels

Weather conditions in the Fort Pierce, Florida, area make reliable performance a crucial matter for your home’s HVAC equipment. However, you may wonder about how to evaluate the efficiency of your existing system or new systems that you are considering if replacing older equipment. Certain labels and HVAC ratings can be helpful as you learn more about what to expect from your current equipment or decide on the best new equipment for your home.

Equipment Identification Labels

Whether you need service for your current system or just want to research its efficiency ratings, you can examine your air conditioner, furnace, and other parts for identification labels. These labels are often discreetly placed to provide information about the make, model, and serial numbers. You may be able to use these details as you research relevant information about expected efficiency levels. If you need heating or air conditioning service, providing this information in advance may allow your contractor to do some preliminary research on common system issues before arriving to service your equipment.

ENERGY STAR and Performance Ratings

ENERGY STAR is a program connected with the United States Environmental Protection Agency and promotes efficiency in the operation of a variety of home appliances and systems. The ENERGY STAR label is used to identify equipment that meet certain standards in terms of high levels of efficiency. These products also promote conservation and provide excellent operating results. HVAC ratings that may be used to help in determining eligibility for this label include:

• SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio represents cooling efficiency in a heat pump or air conditioner. Fourteen is the minimum SEER for a new system, but SEER can be 21 or higher in some high-efficiency systems.
• HSPF – Heating Seasonal Performance Factor represents the efficiency of a heat pump in heating. An HSPF of 8 or greater is considered to be an efficient option for home heating.
• AFUE – Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency reflects the fuel economy of a furnace. A high-efficiency system typically has an AFUE of at least 90 percent.

Professional Recommendations

Professional input is very important as you evaluate your need for new equipment. Contact Preferred Air Conditioning & Mechanical, LLC today at (772) 905-3358 for more information about HVAC system ratings and labels.

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