If your HVAC system is outdated or on the fritz, it might be time for a new one. But knowing where to start is daunting. What system is the best? What features are important? Which system will keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank?
When selecting a new HVAC system, the ENERGY STAR rating should be one of the first things you look at. Consider this your complete guide to understanding and using these ratings to choose the ideal system for your space.
What Is an ENERGY STAR Rating?
ENERGY STAR ratings are given to appliances and systems to express their efficiency by ENERGY STAR, a program run by the Environmental Protection Agency. This means the ratings indicate how much functional output the appliances deliver compared to the energy input they require.
The higher the rating, the more efficient the appliance is. We use these ratings for various appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, dehumidifiers, and even light bulbs.
There are three main types of ratings for HVAC systems:
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): For all HVAC systems. The minimum required rating is 12-12.5.
- SEER (Seasonal ENERGY STAR Ratio): For air conditioners. The minimum required rating is 15.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): For heat pumps. The minimum required rating is 8.5.
Why Are ENERGY STAR Ratings Important?
These ratings are important for many reasons. They help consumers and businesses easily identify how energy-efficient a given appliance is. And taking them into consideration comes with ample benefits.
The Benefits of an HVAC With a Good ENERGY STAR Rating
If you’re wondering if it’s worth it to consider these ratings, take a look at the benefits of a high EER or SEER.
Lower Utility Costs
When you use less energy to power your HVAC system, your utility bills decrease. Switching from an outdated HVAC system to one with a high ENERGY STAR rating can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars each year in utilities.
Positive Environmental Impact
The more energy used, the more harmful carbon emissions are created. These emissions contribute to pollution and accelerate climate change. Choosing an HVAC system with a high ENERGY STAR rating can reduce your household’s carbon footprint and do the planet a huge favor.
Enhanced Home Comfort
Energy-efficient HVAC systems keep your home more comfortable so you can enjoy the cooler or warmer atmosphere you want. You can also adjust the temperature without worrying about massively increasing your energy bill.
Increased Property Value
Installing a high-efficiency HVAC system will raise your home’s value. This gives you more equity or means you can sell your home for more if you ever put it on the market.
Long-Term Reliability
Lastly, appliances with higher EER ratings are likelier to last longer and deliver consistent functionality. Because they can operate with less energy, they also usually experience slower wear and tear and require less frequent maintenance.
Factors That Determine an ENERGY STAR Rating
ENERGY STAR sets criteria for EER ratings, providing consumers with thoroughly researched efficiency information on every appliance. Many factors go into determining these ratings, but the most influential ones are:
- The measurable energy savings it demonstrates
- Advanced performance and features, like smart systems
- The cost savings over time
- Results from third-party testing
These factors test both how much energy a given appliance uses and how much money it can save you.
How to Read ENERGY STAR Ratings
The EPA requires that ENERGY STAR ratings on appliances are easy to find and understand, so it’s a no-brainer once you know what to look for.
The minimum ratings we mentioned can get confusing. But the labels are a breeze to understand. They typically have a 6-star or 10-star rating, so you get a visual of how efficient the system is. The more stars, the more savings! It’s that simple!
When shopping online or in-store for appliances, the ratings should be easy to find. So you can compare different products directly and consider what kind of savings you want to prioritize.
Choose an HVAC System That Saves Energy and Money
Many HVAC systems have fancy and enticing features, but the ENERGY STAR rating is the top factor to consider. We encourage our customers to prioritize the ENERGY STAR ratings whenever possible, as this means a more reliable HVAC system and long-term savings!
If you’re unsure about an ENERGY STAR rating or if a certain HVAC system is right for you, you can always ask us! And if you have no idea where to start looking for a new HVAC system, give us a call.
At Schwantes, we’re HVAC experts and have a deep understanding of ENERGY STAR ratings. When in doubt, you can trust us to help you make an informed, beneficial choice that will keep your home comfortable and save you as much money as possible.
Contact us today for help finding the perfect system with an excellent ENERGY STAR rating.
