What Is EER and Why Does It Matter for Your HVAC System?
When you are considering purchasing or replacing an HVAC system, you may come across the term EER or EER2. Understanding what these ratings mean can help you make a smarter decision that balances comfort, efficiency, and long-term cost savings.
What Does EER Mean?
EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a standard metric used to measure how efficiently an air conditioning system operates. In simple terms, EER tells you how much cooling your system provides compared to how much electricity it consumes.
A higher EER rating indicates that the system delivers more cooling output for each unit of electricity it uses, which can translate to lower energy bills.
What Is EER2?
EER2 is an updated version of the traditional EER rating. It was created to better reflect real-world conditions and provide homeowners with a clearer picture of system efficiency.
The key difference is in the testing process. EER2 testing includes higher external static pressure and more rigorous conditions, making the results more accurate for everyday use. Because of these tougher standards, EER2 ratings are often lower than older EER ratings, but they provide a more realistic measure of how a system will perform in your home.
How Is EER2 Calculated?
EER2 is calculated by dividing the system's cooling capacity, measured in BTUs per hour, by its electrical input, measured in watts. This ratio helps you compare the efficiency of different systems when operating under the same testing conditions.
Why EER2 Matters for Homeowners
A higher EER2 rating means the system uses less electricity to keep your home cool. This can reduce monthly energy costs while maintaining the comfort you expect. Over time, an efficient system can also reduce strain on your equipment, helping extend its lifespan.
Choosing the Right HVAC System
If you are shopping for a new HVAC system, it is important to understand energy efficiency ratings like EER2. Looking at this metric can help you choose a system that provides the right balance of comfort and cost savings.
At Estes Services, we can guide you through your options and help you find a system that fits your home, your budget, and your efficiency goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options.
