Understanding AC Efficiency Ratings: SEER, EER, and What They Mean

November 15th, 2016

With the hot and humid weather of the Southwest Florida area, the overall efficiency of your air conditioning system can make a significant difference in your cooling costs during the summer. By understanding what each of the basic A/C efficiency ratings represent, you will be able to make an informed decision about ac replacement or a new air conditioner, treating it as a long-term investment in comfort and efficiency.

How Do Efficiency Ratings Help With AC Replacement?

Efficiency ratings help you compare AC replacement options by showing how much cooling a system provides for the energy it uses. When choosing a new air conditioner, look at:

  • SEER for seasonal cooling efficiency
  • EER for performance during peak heat
  • HSPF for heat pump heating efficiency
  • Unit size and installation quality
  • Long-term energy savings versus upfront cost
  • Comfort needs in hot, humid weather

What EER Means for Air Conditioner Efficiency

The energy efficiency ratio, or EER, represents the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system measured in British thermal units or BTUs, divided by the amount of electrical power required to provide that cooling measured in kilowatt-hours. This rating represents the amount of energy used to provide cooling during peak conditions, such as the hottest days of the year, and is not the most reliable estimate of how the system will perform over time. A system with a higher EER will be more efficient, and today’s best systems feature EER ratings of over 16.

What SEER Means for Seasonal AC Efficiency

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, is a long-term measurement of the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning system. It is a ratio of the cooling output provided for a full season in BTUs, divided by the amount of energy, in kilowatt-hours, required to power the system. It is a better representation of how the system will perform in a variety of weather conditions, and, like the EER rating, higher is better. In southern climates, regulations require new residential ac installation to meet a minimum of 15 SEER or the updated SEER2 equivalent, and the best systems offer ratings of over 23. For larger homes and commercial spaces, central air conditioning is the most common setup because it delivers cooled air through ducts and vents.

While higher-SEER models can be expensive upfront, a high-efficiency variable-speed system can significantly reduce electricity bills during Florida’s long cooling season, and lower operating costs can offset the added equipment cost over time. Leaky ductwork can undermine those efficiency gains after a new installation.

What HSPF Means for Heat Pump Efficiency

The heating seasonal performance factor, or HSPF, measures the amount of heat provided during a heating season,in BTUs, divided by the power required in kilowatt-hours. This rating is applicable to heat pumps, including air-source and geothermal systems; ductless mini-split systems use an outdoor unit with one or more indoor units and work well where ductwork is not available. These systems can provide both heating and cooling for year round comfort. Window units are a more affordable option for small spaces, but they are usually less energy-efficient than central air conditioning or ductless systems. A higher HSPF represents greater efficiency, and the most efficient systems feature a rating of up to 13 HSPF.

High-efficiency systems may also qualify for tax credits or utility rebates, which can help homeowners save money.

For more information about A/C efficiency ratings, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air. We serve the Southwest Florida area, including Ft. Myers and Naples.

Frequently Asked Questions About AC Efficiency Ratings

Question: What are AC efficiency ratings and why do they matter?
Answer: AC efficiency ratings measure how effectively an air conditioning system uses energy to cool your home. Higher efficiency ratings generally mean the system can provide the same cooling while using less electricity. Understanding these ratings helps homeowners choose systems that reduce energy consumption and lower long term operating costs.

Question: What does SEER mean in air conditioning systems?
Answer: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an air conditioner performs over an entire cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system is. Choosing a system with a higher SEER rating can help improve cooling performance and reduce electricity usage.

Question: Is a higher SEER rating always better for homeowners?
Answer: A higher SEER rating usually means better energy efficiency, which can reduce monthly energy bills. However, higher rated systems may also have higher upfront costs. Homeowners should consider their climate, budget, and expected energy savings when deciding which efficiency rating is the best fit.

Question: How do AC efficiency ratings affect energy costs?
Answer: Air conditioners with higher efficiency ratings typically use less electricity to produce the same level of cooling. This can lead to noticeable savings on monthly utility bills over time. Choosing a more efficient unit can be especially beneficial in warmer climates where air conditioners run frequently.

Question: What should homeowners consider when choosing an energy efficient AC system?
Answer: When selecting an energy efficient AC system, homeowners should consider the SEER rating, the size of the unit, installation quality, and their household cooling needs. A properly sized and professionally installed system with a good efficiency rating can deliver reliable comfort while keeping energy costs manageable.

 

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How to Get the Most from Your Air Conditioner

October 19th, 2016

Even with an efficient air conditioning system, the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida can make it difficult, not to mention expensive, to stay comfortable. Here are a few A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida that can help you stay cool at a reasonable cost:

Have the System Maintained Regularly

Routine maintenance helps your air conditioning system run at peak efficiency, saving energy and money. Have the system professionally inspected at least once a year. By making sure that the air filters are replaced often, the coils are cleaned, the refrigerant is topped off, and the blower motor is cleaned and lubricated, your system will not have to work as hard to keep you comfortable.

Reduce Heat Gain

Any sources of additional heat in your home can make it harder for your air conditioner to cool properly. Minimize heat gain by avoiding activities like cooking, washing dishes, washing clothes or bathing until cooler periods of the day, and add shades or blinds to block the heat of the sun. Locate your air conditioner condenser in a shaded area, if possible, and make sure the attic is vented to draw out excess heat.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Add a programmable thermostat to your system and set it to raise the temperature 5 to 10 degrees while you’re away from home, then reduce it about an hour before you are due to arrive. This can reduce cooling costs by up to 15 percent without sacrificing comfort. Add fans to make it feel cooler, and you may be able to save money by raising the temperature a few degrees.

Seal and Insulate

Many homes in Southwest Florida are poorly insulated. Have your home inspected and add insulation where necessary, especially in the attic, which will help your system cool more efficiently. Use weatherstripping, caulk or spayed foam to seal around windows, doors, pipes, wires and other places where cold air can escape.

To discover more A/C operating tips for Southwest Florida, talk to our home comfort team at Conditioned Air. We have been providing quality A/C services to Southwest Florida since 1962.

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Repair or Replace: Air Conditioner is Blowing Hot Air

October 5th, 2016

When an air conditioner is blowing hot air instead of cool air, it’s not necessarily a sign of a major system failure. In many cases you can repair it yourself, or you may have to call in a professional. Here are a few things to check when your air conditioner is blowing hot air.

Check Thermostat Settings When Your AC Blows Hot Air

Verify that your thermostat is set to cool your home and that the fan is set to “Auto.” When the fan is set to “On,” warmer air may be circulated between cooling cycles.

Check Breakers Before Scheduling AC Repair

Be sure that the breakers for the system are on — turn them off and then back on if you’re unsure. A tripped breaker can shut down the compressor while still allowing the fan to circulate warm air.

Replace a Dirty Air Filter to Restore Cooling

Make sure the air filter is not dirty or clogged. A dirty air filter can reduce airflow, causing the system to shut down and blow warm air.

Inspect the Outdoor Coil for Heat Transfer Problems

Make sure that the outdoor condenser coil is not covered or blocked by furniture or other items, and that the coils themselves are not clogged with leaves, grass or small debris. Turn off the power and clean the coils if necessary. A clogged condenser can prevent heat from being properly released.

Check the Indoor Coil for Airflow and Cooling Issues

A clogged evaporator coil can cause airflow problems, leading to a frozen coil and the distribution of warm air. If the evaporator coil is accessible, it can be cleaned with a soft brush and a vacuum.

Low Refrigerant Levels Can Cause Warm AC Air

Low refrigerant can also lead to cooling problems. Have a professional check for leaks and proper refrigerant levels.

If these steps have not solved the problem, it may be more serious, such as a major refrigerant leak or a damaged compressor. Have a professional inspect the system and determine the cause. If extensive repairs are required or the air conditioner is over 10 years old, it may be time to replace it.

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, contact our team at Conditioned Air for assistance. We have been serving the Southwest Florida area since 1962.

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How to Control Moisture in Your Southwest Florida Home

September 28th, 2016

Excess moisture in your home can lead to increased humidity, which makes a hot day even more uncomfortable and has negative health effects. By taking steps to control moisture in your Southwest Florida home, you can keep your cooling costs to a minimum while also protecting the health of your family.

Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

One of the major jobs of an air conditioning system is dehumidification. As it cools the air, it also removes moisture from it. And if your system isn’t running properly, it will not dehumidify effectively. Have your air conditioning system inspected by a professional at least once a year to make sure it’s running properly and efficiently. Between visits, make sure that you change the air filter every few months to keep it operating well.

Size Your System Properly

If your air conditioning system is oversized for your home, it will cycle on and off frequently, not giving it enough time to properly dehumidify. An undersized system may not be able to process the volume of air necessary to remove moisture properly. When installing an air conditioning system, make sure that it is sized properly for your home, using the proper Manual J procedures instead of general square-foot estimates.

Increase Ventilation

When you are cooking, bathing, washing dishes, washing clothes or doing other activities that add humidity to the air, use exhaust fans to draw out any excess moisture. If moisture is still a problem, consider installing a separate dehumidification system.

Keep Appliances Maintained

Natural gas or propane appliances can add moisture to the air, especially if they aren’t operating properly. Have appliances like stoves, furnaces and hot water heaters professionally maintained annually, and make sure their flue systems are properly sealed to prevent condensation.

For more tips to control moisture in your Southwest Florida home, talk to our heating and cooling experts at Conditioned Air. We have been serving the Southwest Florida area since 1962.

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3 Ways to Lower Heat Gain in Your Home

September 21st, 2016

With the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida, cooling costs are high enough without appliances and other heat sources adding to your energy costs. By taking steps to lower heat gain in your home, you can keep your cooling costs to a minimum and reduce your energy usage.

Use Exhaust Fans

Activities like cooking, washing dishes, washing clothes and bathing can release excess heat and humidity into the air. Turn on exhaust fans in the kitchen or bathroom when these activities are necessary, and avoid performing these tasks during the hottest parts of the day.

Minimize Appliance Use

Many appliances like dishwashers, irons, coffee pots and clothes dryers generate significant amounts of heat when used. Avoid using such appliances until it’s cooler, such as during the evening, and turn off heat-generating electronics and lights during the daytime. Computers, set-top boxes and game systems often produce significant amounts of heat. Also, turn your water heater down to 120 degrees to save energy and reduce heat gain, and replace incandescent light bulbs with cooler, more efficient LED or CFL bulbs.

Shade Your Windows

Southern and western windows can let in large amounts of heat from the sun during the daytime. Install curtains, blinds or shades on these windows and close them during the daytime to minimize solar gain. Open the windows during cooler times, like the evening, to allow natural ventilation. Another option is to install exterior awnings over the windows or to extend the roof to provide shade, while still allowing the windows to be opened.

Other steps that you can take to lower heat gain in your home include using trees and shrubs to shade your windows and air conditioner, using light-colored materials for roofing or siding, and sealing any holes or drafts in the exterior of your home.

For more tips to lower heat gain in your home, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air. We serve Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Naples and beyond.

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Tips for Installing Air Conditioning in an Older Home

September 19th, 2016

In the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida, air conditioning is practically a necessity during the hottest parts of the year, and a quality system can increase the value of your home significantly. Many older homes lack a central air conditioning system, so here are a few tips that will help when installing air conditioning in an older home:

Prepare Your Home

For an air conditioning system to run efficiently without dramatically increasing your energy costs, your home must be reasonably sealed and insulated. Drafts around windows, doors and other penetrations in your exterior walls can allow cool air to escape, significantly increasing your cooling costs, and a lack of insulation will make it hard for your home to maintain a cool temperature. Before installing air conditioning in an older home, consider having an energy evaluation done to find out where your home needs proper sealing and additional insulation.

Choose a System Type

If your home has existing ducts for a furnace, adding a central air conditioning system can be a relatively inexpensive choice. If, however, ducts must be added, the costs will increase dramatically. In that case, you may want to consider adding a ductless mini-split system, which can cool one or more rooms without the need for traditional air ducts. If you are upgrading your heating system at the same time, another option may be a heat pump, which requires air ducts, but can both heat and cool your home efficiently and cost-effectively.

Size It Correctly

Often, especially in older homes, air conditioners are oversized to compensate for any problems with air leaks or poor insulation. An air conditioner that isn’t properly sized will run inefficiently, increasing energy costs. Oversized systems will cycle on and off frequently, preventing proper dehumidification and stressing components like the blower motor and fans. Systems that are too small will work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A professional should be used to size the system, using the proper Manual J procedures.

For more tips on installing air conditioning in an older home, talk to our team at Conditioned Air.

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3 Signs it’s Time to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner

September 7th, 2016

A dependable air conditioning system is vital to weathering the hot and humid conditions of Southwest Florida comfortably, but as your system ages, it may become ineffective at cooling, inefficient and expensive to operate. Here are a few signs that indicate upgrading your air conditioner may be a wise investment:

It Requires Frequent and Expensive Repairs

Air conditioners require annual maintenance to run efficiently and properly, but if your air conditioner starts requiring frequent repairs to keep it running, or if a major component like the condenser or compressor must be replaced, it may be time to consider upgrading your air conditioner. As those repair bills start to add up — especially on an older system — they can quickly approach the cost of a new, much more efficient air conditioner.

It Runs Inefficiently

As an air conditioner ages, it will begin to run less efficiently, reducing your comfort and significantly increasing your energy costs. While some of that efficiency may be gained back through frequent maintenance, eventually the costs of operating the system will outweigh the benefits, especially if it’s an older model with a SEER rating of less than 13. Today’s most efficient air conditioners have SEER ratings of over 20, which can significantly reduce your cooling costs, often by over 20 percent.

It’s Over 10 Years Old

If your system is over 10 years old, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Most air conditioners have a usable lifespan of 10 to 12 years. If your air conditioner is showing signs of age like reduced efficiency, strange noises, or increased maintenance costs (and it has already had a long life), upgrading to a new, more efficient model will improve your comfort and reduce your energy costs significantly.

By upgrading your air conditioner, you can not only save money on your cooling costs, but you can also make sure that your system will operate reliably through even the highest temperatures. Talk to our team at Conditioned Air in Southwest Florida to learn about the latest in energy-efficient air conditioning systems.

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The Latest in High Efficiency Air Conditioning Systems

August 31st, 2016

Air conditioners are a major source of energy usage in the Southwest Florida area, and as energy prices rise, energy-efficiency becomes even more important. If you have an air conditioning system that is several years old, there may be significant savings to be had by upgrading to a newer model. The latest high-efficiency air conditioning systems have many innovative features that reduce energy usage while improving your comfort and increasing reliability. Here are a few of the most important features to look for in a new high-efficiency system.

High SEER Rating

Older air conditioning systems had SEER ratings as low as 13. And as they become older, they become even less efficient, even if they have been maintained relatively well. Today’s high-efficiency air conditioning systems have SEER ratings of over 20, and they can reduce your cooling costs by 20 percent or more.

Two-Speed Compressors

Older systems had single-speed compressors that would run for a while at full speed, then shut down to regulate the temperature of the home. Not only does this process inhibit dehumidification, but it’s also inefficient, noisy, and hard on the compressor. Two-speed compressors can run at full speed to reduce the temperature quickly, then switch to a slower speed to move a constant volume of air slowly. This eliminates uneven cooling and allows the compressor run at a slower, more efficient speed the majority of the time.

Variable Speed Air Handlers

Air handlers in older systems turn on and off as needed to moderate temperature, leading to noisy and inefficient operation. Variable-speed air handlers can adjust the volume of air by speeding up or slowing down as necessary. This allows them to better adapt to changing temperatures which eliminates unevenness and allows them to run slower, which reduces energy consumption.

Efficient Coil Designs

In high-efficiency air conditioning systems, the evaporator and condenser coils have been redesigned to increase surface area, reduce restrictions and increase the efficiency of the heat transfer process.

For more information about high-efficiency air conditioning systems, talk to our team at Conditioned Air, serving the Southwest Florida region.

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Why You Need a NATE Certified Technician

August 17th, 2016

The air conditioning and heating systems in your Florida home are not only important to your health and your comfort, but they also represent a significant investment. To protect that investment, it’s critical that repairs and maintenance be done only by professionals, such as NATE-certified technicians from a quality HVAC service. As a consumer, the benefits of NATE certification are extensive.

What Is NATE?

NATE, the North American Technical Excellence organization, is an association of HVAC industry professionals that includes technicians, service providers, equipment manufacturers, industry associations, and government agencies, such as the EPA. It provides education and certification services for HVAC technicians, and it helps to create relevant standards for the industry.

Benefits of NATE Certification

Technicians that are NATE certified have received thorough training on all types of HVAC equipment, including air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces and boilers, and have demonstrated that knowledge and experience through an exhaustive testing and certification process.

This ensures that each technician can properly size and install a system using the applicable Manual J procedures and perform all routine maintenance on that system, including filter changes, cleaning the coils, adjusting fan belts, checking the electrical system, and inspecting heat exchangers according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals and procedures. This protects the system’s warranty and keeps it running properly and efficiently.

The technician will also be able to perform any required repairs, including warranty work, and offer advice and knowledge about the system. NATE-certified technicians have all the knowledge and experience necessary to care for your system properly, extending its lifespan, preventing major system problems, and protecting its warranty. They represent the best technicians in the industry, and HVAC service companies that employ NATE-certified technicians demonstrate a commitment to high-quality, professional customer service.

To learn more about the benefits of NATE certification, talk to our team at Conditioned Air today. We are proud to feature NATE-certified technicians with extensive knowledge and real-world experience who can handle all of your heating and cooling needs quickly and efficiently. We serve the Southwest Florida region, including the Naples, Sarasota and Ft. Myers areas.

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Coping With Indoor Allergy Issues in the Summer

August 10th, 2016

As summer hits the Southwest Florida area and both the temperature and humidity rise, many people will be spending the majority of time indoors comforted by air conditioning. This can present problems for those with allergies, as indoor allergy issues will become more prevalent. There are, however, several steps that you can take to successfully cope with indoor allergy issues during the summer.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed

When pollen counts are high, it’s best to keep your windows and doors closed and use the air conditioning as much as possible to avoid unnecessary allergens. This is especially true in the early morning hours — from about 5:00 to 10:00 a.m. — when pollen counts tend to be the highest.

Avoid Bringing Allergens Inside

When you do work outside during the summer, such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the yard, pollen, dust and other allergens can easily hitch a ride indoors on your clothing. To avoid adding extra allergens to your indoor air, change your clothes and take a shower after the job is finished and wash your work clothes often.

Clean Often

Minimize the accumulation of allergens by vacuuming and dusting often, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and either moist or electrostatic cloths. Install hypoallergenic sheets, pillowcases and mattress covers in each bedroom, and wash them at least once a week. Reduce clutter throughout your home and reduce the number of surfaces that can collect dust and allergens.

Keep Your HVAC System Maintained

Have your HVAC system professionally inspected and cleaned twice a year to prevent system problems and reduce dust accumulation. Check the air filters monthly and replace them as necessary, and upgrade to filters with higher MERV ratings for better air filtration. Consider installing a whole-home air cleaner or ventilation system to improve indoor air quality and to reduce the amount of allergens and dust in your home.

For more suggestions about coping with summer indoor allergy issues, talk to our air quality experts at Conditioned Air. We have been serving the Southwest Florida region since 1962.

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