Understanding HVAC Energy Ratings

When shopping for a new heating or cooling system, you'll encounter various efficiency ratings. Understanding what these numbers mean can help you make an informed decision and potentially save money on energy costs for years to come.

Key Efficiency Ratings Explained

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)

SEER is a measure of an air conditioner's or heat pump's cooling efficiency. It represents the total cooling output during a typical cooling season divided by the total electric energy input. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the product and the more you can expect to save on energy costs.

Modern high-efficiency systems can achieve SEER ratings of 20 or higher, compared to older systems that may have ratings of 10 or less.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)

HSPF is a measure of a heat pump's heating efficiency over the course of a heating season. Like SEER, a higher HSPF indicates greater efficiency. This rating is particularly important for Wisconsin homeowners who rely on heat pumps during our cold winters.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)

AFUE measures the efficiency of gas and oil furnaces. It represents the percentage of fuel that is converted to heat. A furnace with 95% AFUE converts 95% of the fuel to heat, with only 5% lost through exhaust.

ENERGY STAR® Certification

ENERGY STAR® labeled HVAC systems save at least 15% to 25% more energy than standard products. While ENERGY STAR® doesn't act as a rating on its own, it does help indicate what products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Right-Sizing Your System

While efficiency ratings are certainly important, getting a system that is the right size for your home is just as critical. In most homes, the heating and cooling system is too big. Besides wasting energy, a system that is too large can create:

• Uneven temperatures throughout your home
• Poor humidity control
• Increased maintenance calls over time
• Higher upfront costs
• Shorter equipment lifespan due to short-cycling

A qualified HVAC professional can perform a load calculation to determine the proper size system for your Wisconsin home, taking into account factors like square footage, insulation, windows, and local climate conditions.

Advanced Efficiency Features

Variable Speed Technology

Variable speed or modulating systems can adjust their output to match your home's heating and cooling needs precisely. This results in better comfort, lower energy bills, and quieter operation compared to single-stage systems.

Demand Defrost

Advanced heat pumps feature demand defrost technology that minimizes defrost cycles, reducing energy costs while maintaining comfort during Wisconsin's cold winters.

Dual-Fuel Systems

Dual-fuel systems combine a heat pump with a gas furnace, automatically switching between heat sources based on outdoor temperature and energy costs. This can be an excellent option for Wisconsin's climate, providing efficient heat pump operation in moderate weather and gas heating during extreme cold.

Tax Credits and Rebates

High-efficiency HVAC equipment may qualify for federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, as well as rebates from local utility companies. These incentives can significantly offset the higher upfront cost of energy-efficient equipment.