How to Read the Energy Star Labels

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency established this program to help consumers identify the most efficient appliances in numerous categories.

You’ll find these labels on many appliances and electronics and there are some differences between the label’s layout from one device to another, but the content is still the same that will include:

• Manufacturer’s name
• Model number
• Size
• An estimate of annual operating costs and energy consumption
• Important features
• The Energy Star logo (if qualified)

HVAC equipment also indicates the energy efficiency rating specific to the system that will include:

• SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) for central air conditioners and heat pumps
• EER (energy efficiency ratio) for all air conditioners and heat pumps, including central and portable
• HSPF (heating season performance factor) for heat pumps
• AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) for combustion heating systems

You can learn a lot about the appliance just by looking at its EnergyGuide label. Each label has a horizontal scale with an arrow indicting how the appliance compares to other appliances with similar characteristics.

The presence of the Energy Star logo on the EnergyGuide label means that the appliance meets the guidelines for efficient performance under a wide variety of climate conditions.

The HVAC system has also demonstrated that the energy savings you’ll achieve with the equipment will offset its higher initial cost within a reasonable period of time. Installing an Energy Star system may even qualify you for rebates, credits, or incentives from local agencies.

The Energy Star label sits in the bottom right-hand corner, and you’ll find the model information and key features in the top corners of the label. The efficiency ratings lie near the center.

The Energy Star label provides solid information about an HVAC appliance that will help you save energy. Our goal at Sobieski Services is to provide our customers in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey and Delaware with information about HVAC and plumbing issues to live in healthier and more comfortable homes.

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