When deciding to install new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment, as well as other major household appliances, home owners should consider two costs. These include:
- The initial cost of the equipment or appliance
- The ongoing costs of operating the equipment or appliance
Long-term costs from use can greatly impact the total value of a piece of HVAC equipment, causing lower-priced equipment models to costs much more over time. Luckily, energy ratings are available that allow consumers to see which models offer the most efficiency and make the most strategic purchase.
What are Energy Ratings?
Energy ratings are issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and provide a range of information about an equipment model’s energy use. In retail stores, the energy guide for a model can be found on a bright yellow card attached to the model. Key features are listed as well as the estimated yearly operating cost and electricity use. If an equipment model or appliance reaches a high level of efficiency, it is awarded the EPA’s Energy Star rating.
The estimated yearly electricity use information on the card allows consumers to gauge what their costs will be to operate the equipment in their homes. The electricity use is shown in kilowatt hours (kWh) and can be multiplied by the consumer’s local electricity rate. If consumers believe they would use the equipment more than the average listed on the card, they can increase the figure by the percentage of the estimated extra use to gain a more accurate monetary figure.
Are All Energy Ratings the Same?
No. Energy ratings are specific to the classification of home appliances and equipment categories. For example, the ratings given to clothes dryers are different than the ratings applied to water heaters. This allows consumers more accurate comparisons to be made within specific categories when they are choosing which models to purchase.
Upgrading Your Delaware or Maryland Home’s HVAC Equipment
Residents of Delaware and Maryland who would like to upgrade the HVAC systems in their homes can contact First Class HVAC for friendly, professional service. In our 40+ years of experience, we have gained valuable knowledge about the long-term benefits of various HVAC equipment models and can guide you in choosing the best units for the specifications of your home. Our certified professionals are here to assist you in upgrading your HVAC system from the first stages of planning through to installation and maintenance.