Climatemakers' Circle Of Comfort (Part II)

The second most important component of any Indoor Comfort System (and most expensive to acquire and operate) is the cooling equipment. The most striking improvement in cooling performance isthe result of a Federal mandate that became effective in January, 2006, that requires all units made and installed after that date to have a minimumSEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 13. SEER is the measure of energy that a unit consumes and as prior to that date it was 10, this means a 30% improvement in efficiency! Even an air conditioner only 5 years old with the rating of 10 SEER is grossly inefficient by current standards and with today’s energy costs soaring towards the stratosphere, this is no small thing.

And there is more. While 13 SEER is now the standard, variable-speed compressors, which run only as hard as they need to, can now bump that performance to SEER 16 and 18. Other improvements include better protection of the vulnerable outdoor coil, and plastic bases that don't rust. Warranties run 10 years for compressors and some have 10 years for coils.

     Similar to the improvement in heating systems we highlighted in our last newsletter, that resulted when variable speed blowers and variable capacities were introduced (to see previous newsletter for more details, click here) this remarkable improvement in operating efficiency of cooling units occurred as the result of single speed compressors being replaced with multispeed compressors...an event of epic proportions. At the same time, highly efficient scroll compressors arrived that promised longer life through reduced wear.

     Like heating systems, air conditioners that operate at variable speeds enable the system to circulate cool air throughout your home for longer periods of time. Result? Even, consistent temperatures, and lower humidity, in every room. For just like heating systems, longer cycles avoid air stratification that stems from frequent “on/off” cycles and makes you feel more comfortable even at the same temperature setting.

     One word of caution. When a condenser fails on a split system air conditioner unit or heat pump more than 3 years old (before 2006) and must be replaced, some “contractors”, whether from ignorance or to cut corners, ignore the necessity of replacing both the indoor coil as well as the outdoor condenser. Both units must be replaced if your new condensing unit is to give you optimal performance, efficiency and comfort. In fact, some manufacturers of condensing equipment will not honor the warranty when the indoor coil is not replaced.

     Don’t miss the next installment of “Climatemakers’ Circle of Comfort”. In the meantime, if you need more information on these innovations or any other questions pertaining to HVAC systems, visit our 250+ page website (www.climatemakers.com) or call (757.468.5800) or email (comfort@climatemakers.com) to contact one of our very knowledgeable sales representatives. There is no obligation, of course.


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