Q: What is a SEER rating?
A: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and can be compared to MPG‘s (Miles Per Gallon) in a car. The higher the SEER rating the more energy efficient it is.
Q: What is HSPF?
A: HSPF is an abbreviation for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. It is the most commonly used measure of the heating efficiency of heat pumps. (The cooling efficiency of a heat pump is measured by its SEER) HSPF is a heat pump's estimated seasonal heating output in BTUs divided by the amount of energy that it consumes in watt-hours. New heat pumps manufactured after 2005 are required to have an HSPF of at least 7.7.
Q: How often should I have my equipment serviced?
A: Heating and Air Conditioning equipment should be serviced at least once a year. The best scenario is to have the heating system checked in the Fall and the air conditioning checked in the Spring.
Q: What Size Heating and Air Conditioning System Do I Need?
A: Having the HVAC system properly sized is extremely important. A system that is too large will cool or heat your house quickly, but you may not feel comfortable. That's because it will satisfy the thermostat before it can adequately remove sufficient moisture from the air during the cooling mode, leaving you feeling sticky and humid. This could even lead to moisture and mold problems. And, the stress of short-cycling (too many starts and stops) will shorten the life of your equipment and increase your heating and cooling bills.
On the other hand, a system that is too small just cannot get the job done, especially in extreme weather conditions. The air conditioner will run constantly in the summer and the furnace will do the same in winter.
But a correctly sized system isn't just based on the size of the structure. Many factors go into determining the size of the system. Including type of house and walls, type and size of windows, insulation, basement and attic conditions, house orientation, and so on. A Salesman must visit the house and take detailed measurements and notes while conducting the survey to perform a load calculation that will determine the correct size unit for your home.