In order to lower the collective demand for electricity and reduce household energy bills, the HVAC industry has developed high efficiency features for cooling systems. These design innovations reduce electrical consumption and in some cases, increase indoor comfort.
The minimum energy efficiency rating a central air conditioner or heat pump must meet is 13 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). Systems are available that have SEER ratings into the 20s, and each increase in the SEER indicates that the system consumes 10 percent less electricity than the one just below it. For example, a 16 SEER system uses 30 percent less electricity than a 13 SEER system.
In our region, cooling equipment with the following high efficiency features are often found with high SEER rated A/Cs and heat pumps:
- Variable speed blowers or air handlers. These run at different speeds based on the cooling needs of your home. They start and stop quietly and remove more humidity than conventional single-speed blowers. Because their running speed is slower, they also trap more airborne particulates on the air filter, which improves indoor air quality. Not running at top speed means that the blower motors use less electricity.
- Dual-speed compressors. This feature saves electricity because the compressor doesn’t run at top speed continually, which is one of the best efficiency features to look for in our climate. The compressor only runs at high speed when weather is exceptionally hot, so you save money overnight and during moderate weather.
These features won’t increase the SEER but do help you lower cooling costs:
- Fan-only switch. This operates the fan inside the blower even when the cooling system isn’t running. It circulates the air, making you more comfortable.
- Filter check light. Systems with this feature save energy by alerting you when the air filter needs changing. Dirty filters increase energy bills and wear and tear on your equipment. These devices either measure the airflow inside the blower or track the hours your blower has run.
If you would like more information about high efficiency features, please contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve provided reliable HVAC services in Lorain and the surrounding area for more than 33 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area