Want to cut costs AND be comfortable all winter long? The first step is understanding what energy efficiency ratings for HVAC systems are, and then how they can impact your budget and more!
What is an Energy Efficiency Rating?
HVAC systems come with an energy efficiency rating, which indicates how effectively a system converts fuel or electricity into heating or cooling. These ratings, such as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for air conditioners and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces, provide a standardized way to compare the energy performance of different units. A higher rating indicates that the system is more efficient, meaning it uses less energy to achieve the desired temperature.
Higher ratings directly translate into lower energy bills for homeowners. For instance, upgrading from an older furnace with a 70% AFUE to a newer model with a 95% AFUE can save you substantial amounts on your energy bills.
How Higher Energy Ratings Help Combat Higher Bills
Older heating systems, poor insulation, and inefficient windows can all contribute to higher energy consumption in the winter. Having a system with a high energy efficiency rating, you can mitigate these common energy drains.
For example, heat pumps with high SEER ratings can provide both heating and cooling efficiently, making them a versatile option for year-round comfort. Likewise, investing in a furnace with a high AFUE rating ensures that more of the fuel you pay for is converted into heat, rather than wasted.
Smart Investments: Choosing Systems for Maximum Savings
When it comes to choosing system upgrades, it’s important to consider the long-term savings that energy-efficient models can provide. Look for products that have ENERGY STAR® certification, which shows that they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Other options include adding smart thermostats to your home, like the Daikin One+ Thermostat, which lets you optimize your heating system’s performance for your personal schedule and lifestyle. Being able to set different zones and adjust temperatures for when you’re home or away is a great way to cut costs on energy bills.
Call Tuckers for Better Winter Savings
Whether you know exactly which heating system you want for your home, or have more questions, Tuckers is here to help. We’ll make sure any update is properly sized for heating your home, and meets your efficiency needs. Our installation and maintenance services are backed by extensive warranties and satisfaction guarantees, so we have your comfort covered!