This is a question that air conditioning repair and installation specialists often hear: “What is that sticker with ENERGY STAR on it mean?”
No, it’s not a brand name, nor is it similar to the stickers you often see on computers that indicate a type of proprietary technology or component inside. (In fact, it can mean just the opposite, as we’ll get into below.) What the ENERGY STAR label indicates is that the particular air conditioning system has met the requirements of a voluntary government program that oversees energy-efficient performance and pollution control among appliances for both homes and businesses.
At Design Comfort, we encourage our customers to look into ENERGY STAR-approved products when they are starting out with air conditioning installation in Salt Lake City, UT. This way, they can receive savings as well as quality cooling power. However, it’s still important to rely on the assistance of professionals when selecting a system—and our staff will always be here and ready to help you.
How ACs qualify for the ENERGY STAR label
The ENERGY STAR program started in 1992 when the U.S. EPA initiated a voluntary set of guidelines to help homes and businesses reduce energy use and the emission of greenhouse gases without sacrificing productivity or comfort. Each type of appliance has its own set of requirements that an individual model must meet in order to receive the approval sticker from the program.
For central air conditioners to receive ENERGY STAR certification, they must have a minimum SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) of 14.5 and an EER (energy efficiency rating) of 12. In addition to this, the technology required to achieve the high efficiency must be non-proprietary and available to all manufacturers. (The idea is that saving energy must belong to everyone, not just a few companies.) The units must also have basic features that the program has determined consumers want.
The ENERGY STAR requirements are a good baseline for homeowners who are shopping for a new AC to install. With the ENERGY STAR label, you can feel assured that the system will save you money over one that lacks certification, and that you are doing your part to better the environment.
However, energy efficiency isn’t your only concern when it comes to air conditioning installation in Salt Lake City, UT. You will need the work of trained installers to make sure you have the proper sized unit to provide you with sufficient cooling, and to see that it is installed correctly. Call up Design Comfort when you are getting ready for a new AC for your home. We will guide you to the right ENERGY STAR system for you, so you will have savings and comfort for many years to come.
