The sweltering Houston heat means most homeowners rely on air conditioning units to stay comfortable indoors. With AC running almost nonstop during the summer, energy bills can skyrocket. High electricity costs put a strain on many family budgets. The good news is that not all AC units are created equal when it comes to energy efficiency. Comparing EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings allows Houston homeowners to choose cooling systems that save the most on energy.
Understanding EER ratings and differences between AC unit types empowers homeowners to make cost-effective choices. This guide examines how EER works, recommended levels for Houstons climate, and tips for comparing EER on various AC unit options.
EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. This measure indicates how efficiently an air conditioner converts electricity into cooling power. Specifically, EER is the BTU (British Thermal Unit) of cooling output produced per watt hour of electric input at a standardized temperature. The higher the EER, the more efficient the AC unit. EER ratings appear on yellow Energy Guide labels required on all new air conditioning systems. Ratings apply under specific test conditions defined by the Department of Energy (DOE). While EER doesn’t reflect exact real-world energy use, it serves as a standardized comparison metric. Units with higher EER ratings generally use less electricity overall during typical operation.
Houstons long, hot and humid summers make EER especially important. The city averages 94 days a year above 90°F. Summertime temperatures often exceed 100°F. To combat the heat, over 90% of Houston homes have air conditioning. AC units run almost nonstop for months, consuming a lot of energy. Higher efficiency systems with elevated EER ratings can cut electricity costs substantially. For example, upgrading from an 8 EER to a 14 EER unit reduces energy use by over 40%. With Houston electricity prices around 10¢ per kWh, the savings add up quickly. An efficient AC unit soon pays for itself through lower utility bills.
The DOE sets minimum allowable EER levels based on region. In the hot South Central zone containing Houston, the minimum is now 14 EER. While 14 EER meets the legal minimum, higher ratings maximize energy and cost savings:
Aim for 16 EER or higher whenever installing a new AC system. Compare EER among units from different manufacturers to get the best efficiency.
Several types of central air conditioning systems are common in Houston homes. Models include:
EER varies among these technologies. Understanding the factors that affect efficiency helps compare ratings.
Split ductless systems have an outdoor condenser paired with one or multiple indoor evaporator units. They distribute air directly instead of using ductwork. Top models on the market today offer EER ratings from about 15 to over 30. Mini-split ductless units tend to be some of the most efficient options.
Benefits include:
Ductless systems require professional installation. The number of indoor units affects both efficiency and cost.
As the name implies, package AC units combine components into a single outdoor cabinet. They offer a streamlined, low-maintenance option.
EER ratings for package units generally fall between 14 and 20. Larger units for commercial use may reach 23 EER.
Package systems offer:
The trade-off is possible shorter lifespan compared to split systems. Large cabinet size can also be a drawback.
Unlike air conditioners, geothermal heat pumps use the earth’s stable subsurface temperatures for heating and cooling. EER ratings typically range from 16 to over 30.
Benefits of geothermal heat pumps:
Downsides are high upfront cost and extensive land needed for underground loops. ROI takes years but provides huge long-term savings.
As a hybrid option, dual-fuel heat pumps combine geothermal operation with a backup gas furnace. This allows efficiency gains without the large upfront cost of a full geothermal system.
Dual-fuel units have two EER ratings – one for cooling mode using the heat pump, and a lower AFUE furnace rating for heating mode. Compare both to assess efficiency.
Advantages include:
Consider dual-fuel units to balance efficiency gains with affordability. The gas furnace handles peak heating needs.
Many Houston homes rely on AC units over 10 years old. New systems offer big efficiency improvements thanks to higher EER capabilities. For example, replacing an old 10 EER unit with a new 18 EER model reduces electricity use by 44%. The upgrade pays for itself within a few years through energy savings.
Check the yellow Energy Guide label to determine the EER rating for an existing AC system. Then compare against ratings for new units to estimate potential savings. Aim for at least a 20-30% increase in EER when replacing outdated equipment. Optimize savings by selecting the highest efficiency system within budget constraints.
Proper sizing is also key – avoid oversized units that cycle on and off frequently. Work with an HVAC professional to select the right system.
While EER provides a helpful efficiency comparison, other factors also affect real-world energy use and costs. Installation quality, ductwork, sizing, brand reputation and more all play a role.
For the best results, work with qualified HVAC installation pros like Turbo Home Services. Their experts help Houston homeowners choose new systems tailored for each home.
The Turbo Home Services team evaluates:
With this information, they recommend the most energy efficient yet cost-effective AC solution. Their decades of Houston HVAC experience means you get ideal comfort and energy optimization.
While a critical metric, EER alone doesn’t determine total energy use. Also consider:
Evaluate all these factors along with EER ratings to maximize efficiency. Combining a high-EER AC unit with other best practices ensures the lowest possible energy costs.
Houston’s long summers and hot climate mean most homeowners need efficient, reliable air conditioning. Comparing EER ratings makes it easy to choose AC systems that save the most on energy costs. Aim for the highest EER unit in your budget when replacing outdated equipment. Proper installation and maintenance will maximize real-world energy efficiency. Beating the heat in Houston doesn’t have to mean sky-high electricity bills. Take control by understanding EER ratings and selecting right-sized, energy-saving AC solutions from reputable professionals like Turbo Home Services.
To learn more about choosing energy efficient air conditioning for your Houston home, call the experts at Turbo Home Services today at (281) 626-5938 or visit https://turbohomeservices.com/contact-us/ for AC maintenance, installation or repair services. Their team is ready to help you stay comfortable while saving big on energy this summer and for years to come.
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