What HVAC Energy-Efficiency Ratings Mean

Are you researching the efficiency ratings of new air conditioning and furnace systems? Perhaps you want to check the rating on your current HVAC system. Either way, you can learn the efficiency rating and estimated annual operating costs by reading the yellow Energy Guide sticker around the side of the unit. We’d like to share some details about the multiple ratings you might see and what they mean.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a rating of air conditioning efficiency. The SEER rating represents the cooling output of an air conditioner over a whole cooling season, divided by the amount of energy utilized during that period. A higher SEER rating suggests considerably better energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

Today, the minimum SEER rating for recently manufactured air conditioners is 14 SEER in the northern U.S. and 15 SEER in the southern U.S. This is an improvement from the past minimum stipulation of 13 SEER in the north and 14 SEER in the south, which was in effect from 2015 to 2022. This change is one part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) ongoing efforts to decrease energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Lately, high-end air conditioners claim ratings of 26 SEER or higher, providing remarkable energy savings. However, exceptional SEER ratings normally come with a higher up-front cost. This simply means you should think about both the initial expense and the prospects for ongoing savings when selecting a new air conditioner.

What Is an EER Rating?

Although SEER ratings are more known to consumers, cooling systems have another efficiency statistic you should be aware of. It’s called EER, and it is short for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This indicates the efficiency of an air conditioner under specified operating circumstances. The EER rating helps you understand if the system will handle the demand on those very hot summer days.

Presently, 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 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 once in heating mode. HSPF is a ratio of the total heat output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) over the heating season to the rate 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, an increase from the preceeding minimum of 8.2 HSPF. By calling for higher minimum HSPF ratings, the DOE wants to motivate people to use more energy-efficient heating systems in homes and businesses across the U.S. Settling for less efficiency remains an option, but you may want to consider a high-end heat pump with a rating of 13 HSPF or higher for the optimum 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 energy used during that period. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace or boiler.

In 2023, the minimum AFUE rating for new gas furnaces was revised to 81. Formerly, the south and southwest had a minimum of 80 AFUE, and the northern states required ratings of 90 AFUE or higher. Even though you’re not required to buy a system with ratings above the minimum, you’ll save on your energy bills by selecting a furnace rated 95 AFUE or higher.

What Is an ENERGY STAR® Rating?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched the ENERGY STAR program in 1992 to help homeowners and businesses find the most energy-efficient products 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 far beyond the minimum specifications to save energy and decrease emissions without limiting performance or features. You can also look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation, which identifies the leading performers in energy efficiency and innovation. The EPA is actually overhauling the qualification requisites in the wake of the new minimum HVAC efficiency standards.

Install an Efficient HVAC System

For help determining which HVAC energy-efficiency rating is appropriate for your budget, look to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can assess your HVAC challenges and assist you in making an informed choice. We can provide you with a wide range of products from today’s top brands, all of which satisfy or exceed the minimum efficiency requirements for 2023. We’re so convinced that you’ll be happy with our services that we provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee! For details or to schedule a free HVAC installation quote, please contact a Service Experts office near you.