We aim to help our customers save money while enjoying comfort. We put it in our slogan: “Live Green, Save Green.” One of the ways to save money while helping the environment is to invest in HVAC equipment with improved energy efficiency. The more efficient a device, the less energy it consumes to provide comfortable temperatures for a household. There’s also less energy taken from power plants, which helps everyone to live greener. A well-maintained ac system and hvac system are essential for achieving both energy savings and lasting performance.
How to Pick an Energy-Efficient HVAC System Based on Efficiency Ratings?
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures cooling efficiency over a typical season. A higher SEER means lower energy use and bills. Aim for SEER 15+ to qualify for Energy Star certification and significant savings.
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): Reflects cooling efficiency under peak load conditions (95 °F outdoors, 80 °F indoors). Important for consistently hot climates.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): Used for heat pumps, measuring heating efficiency. Higher HSPF equals better winter performance and utility savings.
- AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): Indicates how effectively a gas or oil furnace converts fuel to heat. High-efficiency models can reach AFUE 90–98%, maximizing fuel savings.
- Installation quality matters: Even the highest-efficiency unit won’t perform well without proper sizing, ductwork, refrigerant charge, and airflow setup.
This is why we encourage looking into high-efficiency air conditioning in Modesto, CA. We’re going to examine the efficiency ratings of modern air conditioning systems and what they mean as well as how to ensure they make a difference for you, since a high-efficiency rating isn’t a guarantee of savings, although it puts you on the right path.
EER vs. SEER: Understanding Key AC Efficiency Ratings
Air conditioning systems have two efficiency ratings you will see listed, often prominently: energy efficiency rating (EER) and seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER). They’re different by only one word because they use almost identical methods to measure how efficiently an air conditioner converts electrical power into cooling power. Upgrading to a newer AC system can significantly improve these efficiency ratings, especially in older homes with outdated equipment.
EER is a ratio of the amount of cooling power (in British Thermal Units, or BTUs, removed from the air) the AC provides to the amount of electricity (in watt-hours) consumed as tested under specific conditions. The higher the EER rating, the more efficient the unit can perform. It’s time to clean out those ducts to help maintain peak airflow and energy efficiency. Choosing the right AC unit for your space and needs is essential to maximize efficiency and comfort.
SEER is the same ratio of cooling power to electricity. The difference is how it’s measured. Where EER is done as a single test under one set of temperature and humidity conditions, SEER is the average of multiple tests done with a range of temperatures and humidity conditions. These tests are designed to imitate an entire season of cooling to give the consumer a sense of the overall summer performance of the air conditioner. SEER is always higher than EER.
Regular AC maintenance is crucial to ensure your AC unit continues to operate at its rated efficiency. Additionally, regular maintenance and filter changes can help reduce energy costs and extend your system’s life, making it a cost-effective and sustainable choice for homeowners.
How to Compare SEER and EER for Maximum Savings
“What’s a good SEER/EER rating?” is probably the big question you have now. The easy answer is that you should only look for AC systems with SEER/EER high enough for the system to qualify for the US Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR label. The current ENERGY STAR requirements are SEER/EER of 15/10 or higher. Special high-efficiency systems score higher than this, but they also cost more. We can help you with finding the right efficiency to meet your needs and budget. We offer professional solutions tailored to each customer’s needs, ensuring you get the best system for your home or business.
Air Conditioner Sizing and Selection
When it comes to air conditioning installation in Modesto, CA, selecting the right-sized air conditioner is crucial for efficient cooling, reduced energy costs, and optimal performance. A properly sized air conditioning system ensures that your home or business remains comfortable year-round, while also minimizing energy consumption. At our company, our experienced HVAC technicians specialize in providing expert air conditioner sizing and selection services to meet your unique needs.
Our team considers various factors when determining the ideal air conditioner size for your Modesto home or business, including the square footage of the space, insulation, windows, and occupancy. We also take into account the type of cooling system you prefer, such as a central air conditioning system or a ductless mini-split system. Ductless mini-split systems provide zoned heating and cooling for different areas of a home, offering a flexible and energy-efficient solution. By choosing the right-sized air conditioner, you can enjoy energy-efficient solutions, lower energy bills, and a longer-lasting air conditioning system.
In addition to air conditioner sizing, our team also provides professional AC installation services, including air conditioning installations, repairs, and maintenance. We understand the importance of regular maintenance in preventing costly repairs and ensuring peak performance. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of heating and cooling systems used in Modesto, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency. Our skilled technicians are dedicated to delivering high-quality service, transparent pricing, and excellent customer satisfaction.
As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our customers in the Central Valley. Our dedicated team is committed to providing expert solutions, quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service. Several HVAC companies in Modesto employ NATE-certified technicians for their services, ensuring that customers receive the highest level of expertise and professionalism. Whether you need emergency repairs, routine maintenance, or a new air conditioning system, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference of working with a trusted HVAC company in Modesto, CA.
By investing in a properly sized air conditioner and regular maintenance, you can enjoy a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, while also reducing your energy costs and environmental impact. Our team is passionate about providing energy-efficient solutions and indoor air quality solutions to meet your unique needs. Trust us to help you find the perfect air conditioner for your Modesto home or business, and discover the benefits of working with a professional HVAC company.
Common Mistakes When Choosing AC Efficiency Ratings
Saving energy is about more than picking the highest SEER/EER rating you can find and then calling it a day. Regular ac repair and hvac repair are essential to maintain system efficiency and ensure your air conditioner operates at its best. These efficiency ratings are the maximum performance from an air conditioner; they don’t mean a system will perform that well all the time. If you have a bad installation from amateurs or an air conditioner that isn’t sized correctly for your house, the AC won’t perform at the efficiency you want. SEER/EER are important, but they aren’t the final word on energy efficiency. Tips for keeping your home cool this summer can help you get the most from your system beyond just efficiency ratings. Poorly maintained HVAC systems can lead to frequent breakdowns and increase utility costs, emphasizing the importance of regular upkeep. Our repair services cover all major components, including furnace, heating, heating air, and heating air conditioning systems, to keep your home comfortable year-round. We have extensive expertise in modesto ac and modesto ac repair, providing local customers with fast, reliable service and quick response times. Maintaining your air ducts and air filtration systems is also crucial for optimal performance and indoor air quality. Our services help remove allergens and ensure the efficient distribution of hot air throughout your home for maximum comfort. Let us help you receive the best when it comes to choosing a unit and installing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What do SEER and EER ratings mean for my air conditioner?
Answer: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency over an entire season, while EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) shows efficiency under a specific hot-day condition. SEER is always higher and gives a better sense of year-round performance.
Question: What’s a good SEER/EER rating to look for?
Answer: To qualify for ENERGY STAR, look for a minimum SEER of 15 and EER of 10. Higher ratings offer better efficiency and energy savings, though they often come with a higher upfront cost.
Question: Why might a high SEER-rated system not operate efficiently?
Answer: Efficiency ratings reflect optimal performance. Poor installation, incorrect sizing, or leaky ducts can prevent your AC from reaching its rated efficiency, reducing real-world savings.
Question: Should I consider HSPF or AFUE ratings too?
Answer: Yes—HSPF measures heat pump efficiency in heating mode, and AFUE applies to furnaces. If you use a heat pump or furnace, comparing these ratings helps choose the most energy-efficient full HVAC system.
Question: Do higher efficiency ratings always translate to savings?
Answer: Generally, yes—higher SEER, EER, HSPF, and AFUE ratings mean lower energy bills. But long-term savings also depend on climate, usage patterns, system size, and installation quality.
Greenhart helps you “Live Green, Save Green.” Reach out to us if you have any questions about installing a new air conditioning system in your home.