When you are in the market for a new heating and AC unit, you will probably come across the acronyms SEER, EER, and HSPF. According to Dependable Air Conditioning, a heating and AC service for Russellville, AR, and the surrounding areas, these are the energy efficiency ratings given to heating and cooling systems. Higher ratings indicate the unit will have lower operating costs; however, this also tends to mean that the initial purchase will come with a more expensive price tag.

To help you in your hunt for a new AC unit, here is a breakdown of the energy efficiency terms:

• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): This number indicates how much electrical input is required to run an AC unit for an average of one season compared to its cooling capacity. As this number has gradually increased in the last several years, it is usually recommended that homeowners with units that are ten to fifteen years old replace them for a more efficient system. As of January 1, 2015, the EPA requires all air conditioners manufactured to have a minimum SEER rating of 14. Although the typical duct unit installed in the home will have a 21 SEER rating or better.
• EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): To determine how any AC unit you are considering operates under its maximum cooling load, check the EER rating. This is also the better number to check if you are looking at smaller window air conditioners, which would not get much use out of a SEER rating. It is calculated by dividing the cooling output by the total power input.
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): Similar to a SEER rating, HSPF rates how efficient the system is over the time span of one season. It is represented as a ratio of BTU heat output produced over the season to watt-hours of electricity used. Although it can vary from one system to the next, a high HSPF efficiency rating is anything with an 8 or higher.

If your heating and AC unit is more than a decade old, contact Dependable Air Conditioning to discuss more energy efficient options for your home. Schedule an appointment with them today by calling (479) 968-5555. You can also visit their website to learn more about their heater and air conditioner repair and installation services.