Excessive heat is the primary weather-related cause of death in the United States, with the elderly and the very young in urban centers being the most affected. Fortunately, the widespread availability of air-conditioning has significantly reduced mortality rates over the years. Air-conditioning now provides welcome relief from rising temperatures in many businesses, automobiles, and households.

Safety, Standards, and Regulations

When it comes to air-conditioning, homeowners often have concerns about expense, energy usage levels, and air quality. Advancing technology and the introduction of new standards and regulations are helping to ensure that air-conditioning equipment evolves into a safer, more efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly commodity.

Air-conditioner efficiency is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity (BTU/h or output) of a continuously operating unit by the electricity power consumed (WATTS or input) during that same period. For room air-conditioners, this result is referred to as the Energy Efficiency Ratio, or EER; for central air-conditioners, it is called the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER. These ratings can be found on the Energy Label that must be noticeably attached to all new air conditioners.

Why is an EER or SEER rating important? Essentially, the higher the EER or SEER, the less electricity the equipment uses, making it more energy efficient and adding to significant savings on consumers' utility bills. Generally, air-conditioners with higher efficiency ratings are more expensive, but the higher initial cost is offset over time by the savings received.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has set the industry standard minimum efficiency level at 13 SEER for residential central air conditioners, effective January 2006. This standard increased the SEER standard of many currently installed models by 30 percent. The widespread use of SEER 13 or higher air-conditioners also contributes to lower peak electricity demand during the summer months, which can represent as much as 70% of peak demand in some states.

Consumer Confidence

How can consumers be confident that their air-conditioner is compliant with the stated standard rating? The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) tests and certifies home appliances such as room air-conditioners. AHAM uses an independent lab and a standardized test known as the AHAM/ANSI RAC-1 to test the actual cooling capacity of the unit. Once the product has proven to be compliant with the stated standards, the AHAM seal may be used on the product. This seal assures consumers that the product will perform to the SEER or EER rating stipulated by the manufacturer. For additional information, please visit AHAM.

Stay cool and save energy with confidence, knowing that your air-conditioning system meets the highest standards for efficiency and performance.

For more information or assistance, feel free to contact SWACCA at SWFLACCA@gmail.com or call 239 - 893 - 9939.