Homeowners Purchasing New Central AC Units Need to Ensure the Perfect Match
As outdoor temperatures rise, many homeowners may be considering servicing or replacing their central air-conditioning units. This year, the federal government has given them one more thing to think about: a new seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER).
On January 23, a new government mandate took effect that raised the minimum efficiency standard for all newly manufactured central air-conditioners and heat pumps from 10 SEER to 13 SEER. This 30 percent increase in efficiency could cut a homeowner's energy
use up to 55 percent when compared with most central air-conditioning systems that are more than 10 years old.
Manufacturers of these high efficiency air conditioners say proper installation is critical. A central air-conditioning unit has two parts: an indoor coil unit and an outdoor condensing unit. These two parts are designed to work together as a coordinated team
to provide maximum performance, efficiency and comfort. In central air conditioning systems with a 13 SEER or higher rating, these two units need to be perfectly matched for the system to function properly.
"A new air conditioning or heat pump system can be expensive and homeowners are sometimes tempted to save money by just replacing the outdoor unit, but that is going to waste their money down the road," says William G. Sutton, president of the Air Conditioning
and Refrigeration Institute (ARI). "Homeowners won't achieve peak efficiency and comfort levels from their cooling system unless it is properly matched and installed. Improperly installed systems may function, but not at peak performance, and could prematurely
fail."
The Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) recommends homeowners ask their air conditioning technician to confirm that the outdoor condensing unit is perfectly matched with the indoor coil by showing them an ARI Reference Number. This number confirms
that the outdoor and indoor units are perfectly matched as an ARI Performance Certified™ system and assures homeowners that the product they purchased will perform as stated by the manufacturer. Homeowners can check if their system is perfectly matched by
using the ARI Directory of Certified Product Performance (www.ARIDirectory.org) where they can input their indoor and outdoor unit model numbers.
Homeowners also should look for the "ARI Performance Certified" seal on their air-conditioning unit or on accompanying sales literature. When they see this seal, Sutton explains, it is an indication that the product has been rigorously tested to assure the
equipment will perform as stated by the manufacturer.
"We also recommend using a NATE (North American Technician Excellence)-certified technician," he adds. "Homeowners can be assured these technicians have the experience and training to properly install their air conditioning system. To find a local
NATE-certified technician, go to www.NATEX.org."
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The Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute is the trade association representing manufacturers of more than 90 percent of North American-produced central air-conditioning and commercial refrigeration equipment.
