Woodacre Fuel & HVAC Blog

What does efficiency really mean?

Various acronyms usually designate some seemingly random number which pertains to efficiency.

Let us look at SEER ratings since warm weather and the need for air conditioning has finally arrived!

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.  To simplify, it is the cooling output divided by the energy input for an air conditioning system, which determines electrical usage needed to run a system.  Options today range from 13 SEER to 20 SEER; when comparing the cost of operating a 13 SEER system to a 20 SEER, basically the 20 SEER will cost 6.5% less to operate.

So, again to simplify, if your kilowatt per hour cost is .20/kwh and the system runs for 4 hours a day, 13 SEER will cost .80 and the 20 SEER will cost .787.  This seasonal efficiency can be further augmented by variable speed air handlers.  This changes the volume of air flow passing through the ductwork; basically the air handler has 2-3 speeds, rather than one speed.  If it is not as hot, the system can operate on the slower speed, thereby saving energy and removing humidity. Your family is healthier and you are saving on your cooling expenses.  Efficient performance means regular annual maintenance.

Call Woodacre HVAC today to install or upgrade your existing air conditioning system and to schedule your annual tune-up for added energy savings and comfort.

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