There are so many certifications, designations, titles, and descriptors for everything nowadays it can be hard to keep everything straight. When it comes to energy efficiency, there’s a core group of ratings that are important to know about. Here we’ll cover EER, SEER, AFUE, HSPF, and MERV. Knowing these ratings is important to know when purchasing a heating and cooling system or individual parts. These numbers will give you an idea of how efficient the machine is. This directly links to how much it costs to operate per season. Even buying the most energy efficient units does not mean you unit won’t need regular maintenance. In fact, scheduling annual furnace repair Manasquan from an experienced team like Toms River Heating and Cooling is going to help keep your machine as efficient as possible for as long as possible.
Energy Efficiency Ratio
The EER rating of a system gives you a rating of the system functioning under extreme conditions. An air conditioner is tested for its efficiency under temperatures in excess of 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This number is what tells you how the unit performs under extreme conditions. It also takes humidity removal into account. The rating is determined by dividing the British Thermal Units (BTU) by the wattage used. An example would be if a 15,000-BTU air conditioner used 1.500 watts, it would have an EER rating of 19 (15,000/1,500=10). The higher the rating, the more efficient, and also, unfortunately, the more expensive the machine is.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ration
The SEER rating is a less broad than an EER rating. This rating will tell you how much energy the unit uses over the course of an average season. The higher the rating the more efficient the unit. It is important to take all ratings available into account when selecting a new system. A high SEER rating does not automatically mean it also has an impressive EER rating. As with the EER rating, typically the price of the unit rises along with the SEER rating. The best place to find all these ratings is on the Energy Guide label that is on most appliances.
If this all seems confusing so far, we agree! It’s best to speak with an experienced team who provides furnace repair Manasquan so they can recommend units that are best for your area.
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor
Just like SEER, the HSPF is calculated based on usage over the course of a typical season. It looks at the heat output versus wattage used. So, SEER looks at the pump during a cooling setting and HSPF looks at the pump during a heating cycle. Depending on where you live and what types of temperatures are typical of the area dictates which rating will be more important for you. For example, customers who live in warmer climates will want a better SEER rating versus HSPF. On the other side, people who live in colder areas should pay more attention to a HSPF rating.
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency
The AFUE rating for a furnace assesses how efficiently the unit converts fuel to heat. One of the easier ratings to understand, this is shown as a percentage. A furnace with a 75% AFUE uses 75% of it’s fuel to make heat and 25% gets lost through the chimney.
More Money Means Better Machine Right?
As we mentioned a few times so far, the more efficient a unit is, the more expensive it typically is. Is this extra money worth it? Well, the answer unfortunately is, it depends. The purchase of an HVAC system is an investment. You need to take into account the monthly running costs. It is honestly about finding the right balance of price, efficiency, and cost to run that you can afford. Most of the more expensive items will, however, usually cost less to operate on a monthly basis. This means you could get the money spent on the system back in savings multiple times during the lifetime of the machine.
Efficiency Does Not Replace Furnace Repair Manasquan
No matter what ratings you look at and if you find the most efficient system on the market, it still needs routine maintenance. The best thing you can do to avoid needing furnace repair in Manasquan is staying current on annual inspections of your HVAC system. Having the machines looked at by professionals at least once a year can help avoid major damage and costly repairs. If you neglect this step, you could very be left out in the cold figuratively and literally.
Understanding MERV Ratings and Indoor Air Quality
Energy efficiency ratings like EER, SEER, AFUE, and HSPF focus on saving money and maximizing performance. However, many often overlook the crucial rating of Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). This rating measures the effectiveness of air filters in removing particles from the air in your home. A MERV rating ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating better filtration capabilities.
For residential use, professionals recommend filters with a MERV rating of 8 to 13. These effectively capture dust, pollen, mold spores, and even some bacteria. However, if anyone in your household suffers from severe allergies or respiratory issues, a filter with a MERV rating of 14 or higher may be worth considering. It’s important to note that while higher-rated filters provide better air quality, they can also restrict airflow potentially reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs.
Regularly changing your furnace filter is another simple yet critical step in maintaining both energy efficiency and air quality. A clogged filter not only diminishes air quality but forces your system to work harder. This can shorten its lifespan and increase the likelihood of needing furnace repair in Manasquan.
Additionally, for homeowners in the Manasquan area, the humid coastal environment can introduce extra challenges for indoor air quality. High humidity levels can encourage mold growth and exacerbate issues with airborne particles. Pairing a high-quality air filter with a whole-house dehumidifier can make a significant difference.
When it comes to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and your home comfortable, consulting professionals like Toms River Heating and Cooling ensures you’re making the best decisions for both energy efficiency and air quality.
If you’re interested in another important part of your home that needs to be inspected yearly, read this article!