The efficiency of any HVAC, air conditioning unit, heating unit, furnace, or chiller is measured by the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The SEER rating effectively rates energy use for different types and brands of equipment. SEER ratings can be compared to the miles per gallon efficiency ratings for automobiles. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit. The more efficient the unit the more money saved in energy costs. The majority of systems installed before 1992 are rated at 10 SEER or below and continue to drop in efficiency with age.
When all of the components of your heating and cooling system are properly combined in what is called a "matched system," they work seamlessly together to deliver maximum performance at a minimal cost. When examined, air conditioning manufacturers' efficiencies versus the actual efficiencies that resulted after installation it was found that 90% of newly installed units exhibited some sort of energy-wasting, comfort-robbing problem.
Other significant air conditioning industry comfort and energy related surveys1 also revealed the following installation problems:
Duct Leakage (93%)
• Poor indoor air quality
• Health and safety concerns
• Drafts and uneven temperature
• May double air conditioning portion of the energy bill
Incorrect Air Flow (70%)
• Uneven temperatures
• Poor moisture control
• Noisy grilles and registers
• Could add as much as 10% to operating costs
Incorrect Refrigerant Charge (54%)
• Increased failure rate
• Reduced moisture removal
• Equipment typically noisier
• Uneven temperature
• Could add as much as 17% to operating costs
Unit Oversizing (47%)
• Doesn't run enough to wring out moisture
• Air in sunlit & shaded rooms does not mix
• Equipment typically noisier
• Shorter equipment life
Call General Mechanical Systems today to have your HVAC, Air Conditioner, Heat system, Furnace, or Chiller inspected. By investing a little towards an inspection you may save yourself enough money for a mini-vacation :)
1 Texas A&M University, Louisiana State University & Gulf States Utility, Lakeland Electric & Water, Pacific Gas & Electric, American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.
Last Updated on Thursday, 19 August 2010 21:30
