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Knowing the efficiency ratings of your Cincy A/C can tell you how much energy it takes to keep your home cool in the summer. There are three A/C efficiency ratings you need to understand if you're replacing your air conditioner: SEER, COP and EER.

• SEER - The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures the ratio of output cooling energy to electrical input energy over the entire cooling season. The higher the number, the more efficient the system. The U.S. standard for newer systems is a SEER of 13 or higher. Systems manufactured between 1994 and 2006 were required to have a minimum SEER of 10.

• COP - The coefficient of performance (COP) measures the amount of energy put into the system compared to the amount of energy output by the system. The higher the number, the more efficient the system. Part of the energy measures by this coefficient is heat energy. The more the temperature difference is between the indoor temperature and outdoor temperature, the lower the efficiency rating will be. Typically, a modern air conditioning unit will run between 2 and 4 COP.

• EER - The energy efficiency ratio (EER) measures the ratio of cooling energy coming out of the system to electrical input into the system. The EER is used to measure the system's efficiency in a steady state. It's possible to use it as a one-time efficiency rating or rate it over time, like a month or a year. There are no established minimums for EER. The higher the ratio, though, the more efficient the system is.

When shopping for a new A/C system, always check out the efficiency ratings. Putting more money toward a more efficient system upfront can save you in the long-term with lower energy bills throughout seasonal extremes.

If you want to learn more about A/C efficiency ratings and how they make a difference to your home comfort and energy bills, contact us here at Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We're your Cincy A/C specialists.

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