What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean

Are you comparing the efficiency ratings of new air conditioning and furnace systems? Perhaps you’re just curious to understand the rating on your current HVAC unit. Regardless, you can determine the efficiency rating and estimated yearly operating costs by looking at the yellow Energy Guide label around the side of the unit. Below are some facts about the different ratings you might find and what they mean.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a measurement of air conditioning efficiency. The SEER rating is a calculation of the cooling output of an AC unit over a full cooling season, divided by the amount of energy consumed during that period. A higher SEER rating means considerably better energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

Presently, 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, which was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This adjustment demonstrates the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) ongoing efforts to decrease energy consumption and climate-impacting emissions.

Nowadays, top-quality air conditioners claim ratings of 26 SEER or higher, providing amazing energy savings. But bear in mind, exceptional SEER ratings typically come with a higher up-front cost. This means you should look at both the initial financial investment and the prospects for long-term savings when selecting a new air conditioner.

What Is an EER Rating?

While SEER ratings get more attention, AC systems have a different efficiency measurement you should know about. It’s called EER, and it is short for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rating suggests the efficiency of an cooling system under specified operating circumstances. The EER rating enables you to understand if the system will support the demand on the hottest summer days.

At the moment, only the southwest section of the country has a minimum EER rating of 12.2 EER for residential central air conditioners. Peak ratings top out at about 14 EER. Most of the time SEER and EER almost always correspond, with higher ratings indicating stronger overall performance.

What Is an HSPF Rating?

Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings are metrics that indicate the measurement of the energy efficiency of air-source heat pumps when in heating mode. HSPF is a ratio of the total heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) during the heating season to the amount of electricity used in watt-hours. A higher HSPF rating means a more efficient heat pump.

The minimum HSPF rating for new heat pumps is 8.8 HSPF, an improvement from the preceeding minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By demanding higher minimum HSPF ratings, the DOE hopes to encourage the use of more energy-efficient heating systems in homes and businesses across the U.S. Settling for less efficiency remains an option, but it’s a wise choice to get a high-end heat pump with a rating of 13 HSPF or higher for the best performance.

What Is an AFUE Rating?

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings are yet another estimate of heating system efficiency, but they only relate to furnaces and boilers. AFUE is a ratio of the yearly heat output to the fuel consumed 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 has been modified to 81. Previously, the south and southwest had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the north required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. Even though you’re not required to buy a system with ratings above the minimum, you’ll cut back on your heating bills by selecting a furnace rated 95 AFUE or higher.

What Is an ENERGY STAR® Rating?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the ENERGY STAR program in 1992 to help homeowners and businesses identify the most energy-efficient equipment and appliances available. HVAC equipment, appliances, water heaters, light fixtures, office equipment, electronics and building products that achieve or exceed superior efficiency standards can earn ENERGY STAR certification.

ENERGY STAR-rated products go far beyond the minimum requirements to save energy and reduce emissions without limiting performance or features. You might also look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which identifies the leading performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is presently updating the qualification criteria in light of the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.

Install an Efficient HVAC System

For help identifying which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is right for your budget, turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can evaluate your situation and aid you in making an informed choice. Rest assured that we offer a range of products from today’s most reliable brands, all of which achieve or surpass the minimum efficiency requirements for 2023. We’re so confident you’ll be satisfied with our services that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee! For more information or to schedule a no-cost HVAC installation quote, please contact a Service Experts office near you.