With energy costs rising in many areas, maximizing your home’s energy efficiency is more important now than ever! So, how do you know if your HVAC system is up to standard? 

At ProFlo, we have extensive experience with all major makes and models of HVAC systems. Here’s our guide to understanding the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems!

Signs That Your HVAC Isn’t Running Efficiently

If you think something might be wrong with your HVAC system, don’t brush it aside! Calling in your heater and air conditioning technician early on is key to fixing minor problems while they’re still minor. These are the most common signs of an inefficient system  to keep an eye out for:

• Loud noises: Anything outside the usual humming of your HVAC system indicates a part may be loose and should be called in!
• Rising energy bills: If your heater or AC isn’t running efficiently, it will use more electricity and increase your costs.
• Bad air quality: Are allergies kicking up indoors? You may need to have your vents or air filters cleaned. Dust buildup in these components causes poor air quality as well as lower efficiency!

Understanding Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER)

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measure of your AC unit’s efficiency. The SEER number of your system reflects how much energy your air conditioner uses to cool the air in your home; the higher the number, the more efficient your AC is.

Today’s air conditioner models have ratings that fall somewhere between 13 and 22. If you have an older unit, its SEER rating will be around 8 or 9.

The Meaning of Energy Star Certification

Energy Star Certifications are a great first step in making your home as efficient as possible! This rating indicates that a unit has been put through rigorous testing and meets high-efficiency standards set by the EPA. 

If you’re about to replace your HVAC system, ask your contractor for units that display the blue Energy Star Certification symbol. Though a bit more costly upfront, these systems save you money over time by keeping your utility costs lower.

What to Know About Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)

The AFUE rating score reflects how well your furnace produces heat from fuel. Though less common than Energy Star, you may see this symbol on some equipment labels. The higher the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency Rating, the less fuel you’re using to heat your home.

Whether you need maintenance, repairs, or system replacement, ProFlo is your go-to for all things HVAC efficiency. We pride ourselves on providing Temecula Valley with cost-effective, timely, and efficient heater and air conditioning solutions. For a free quote, give us a call at 951-694-1300 or contact us online today.