When you’re looking for a new HVAC system in Bella Vista, AR, its efficiency will be a significant factor in your decision. Heating and cooling efficiency directly impacts your monthly utility costs, carbon footprint and comfort. Here’s what you need to know about the ratings of different types of HVAC systems and why they matter.
AFUE Ratings
Firstly, AFUE is an acronym for annual fuel utilization efficiency. It’s a measure of how much input energy turns into heat. Furnaces and boilers are rated with the AFUE system. AFUE is expressed as a percentage. Gas furnace AFUE ratings range from 60% to 98%. Electric furnaces all have a 100% AFUE rating. The higher the AFUE, the more efficiently the system creates heat.
SEER Ratings
SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It measures how much input energy the system uses to remove heat from your home. SEER measures the efficiency of central and window air conditioners and the cooling functions of heat pumps. SEER ratings start at 8. For maximum efficiency, choose a cooling system with a SEER of 14 or higher.
HSPF Ratings
Heating season performance factor, or HSPF, rates a heat pump’s heating efficiency. It’s a ratio of how much heating output the system creates per unit of input energy. This matters because in moderately to frigid locations, heat pumps aren’t as efficient as gas furnaces at heating your home.
Finally, replacing your home’s heating and cooling system is a big initial investment. Higher SEER and AFUE ratings help lower your monthly utility bills. Keep in mind that it’s best to replace the entire system because a high-efficiency furnace or air conditioner also needs a matching high-efficiency air handler to deliver the advertised energy savings. We also recommend choosing an Energy Star-certified heating and cooling system, which uses 15% less energy to maintain indoor comfort.
To learn more about SEER and AFUE ratings, give H&K Heating & Air, INC. a call today. We look forward to helping you with your next HVAC installation.
