What is the S.E.E.R. of an A/C Unit? S.E.E.R. stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a rating of how much energy or electricity is used during a specific time period of operation. The higher the SEER rating the lower the electrical costs would be to operate your A/C Unit. For example, for every $80.00 you would spend to cool your home using a 10 SEER system, a 14 SEER system would cost about $57.00. See the chart below for more comparisons. How does a Central Air Conditioning System Work? Click here to find out! How does a Heat Pump Work? Click here to find out! How does a Gas Furnace Work? Click here to find out! What is the new minimum SEER rating as of Jan. 1, 2006 The new rating our government has set for the production of all air conditioning systems has been raised from 10 SEER to 13 SEER. The 10 and 12 SEER systems will no longer be produced in this country and will only be available in limited quanties until inventories run out. These systems will cost more. Replacing just one section of an old system may no longer be feasible. For example a new 13 SEER condensing unit cannot be piped to an existing older 10 SEER evaporator coil. This will also make replacements more costly. "THERE ARE REBATES AVAILABLE FOR THE INSTALLATION OF 13 SEER SYSTEMS",(see our home page for more info.) What is a variable speed system? This type of system has an ECM (Electronically Controlled Motor) or variable speed blower motor in the indoor fan coil section. The blower motor automatically changes its speed and air flow according to the demand of the system. Standard blower motors operate at one constant speed at all times. The major benefits of this type of system are, increased comfort levels due to a much higher level of moisture removal during cooling and warmer supply air temps. in heating, higher SEER and efficiency ratings, and lower operating sound levels. How do I choose a contractor? Choosing a reliable contractor can be more important than the brand of equipment you choose, because no matter how well made a heating or air conditioning system is or who manufactures it, the comfort, reliability, and energy efficiency that equipment provides is still in the hand of the company doing the installation. Some people prefer to get several estimates. That isn't a bad idea, as long as you don't consider lowest price the main reason for selecting a contractor. What should you look for? 1. A good contractor is professional. their people are prompt; they meet appointments, they are courteous, neat and well groomed. This neatness should be reflected in their vehicles and offices. 2. They should have an office/shop facility, and not be ashamed to have you visit them. 3. How a company treats you now, reflects how they will treat you when there's a problem. 4. Your assurance of a satisfactory installation may depend on whether that company stays in business for the first year of warranty. Those who have an office / shop are far more likely to be in business in the future. 5. Many existing installations aren't properly sized, and better contractors provide equipment exactly meeting your home heat/cool load/gain requirements. This usually turns out to be less expensive, and a more comfortable and efficient system installation. We hope the above information will help you make the right decision when choosing a contractor. Is warm air heat drier than baseboard hot water heat? No, whether the heat is transfered from a flame in a heat exchanger, or from hot water inside a pipe to the living space, the relative humidity as the air is being heated will be decreased with any type of heating system. Warm air heat would be the best system to install because a humidification system can be added to increase or control the humidity level. This humidity is introduced into the air stream of the heating system which cannot be done with baseboard hot water heat. Problems like high static electricity, cracking woodwork and dry scratchy throats would be avoided. Also air cleaners and central air conditioning can be added to warm air heating systems. What can I do to keep my heating and or air conditioning system operating efficiently? 1. Keep air filters clean. 2. Keep condenser coils clean. 3. Have a digital programmable T-stat installed or program the existing one for set back temperatures. 4. Get a "maintenance" contract with All-Temp Systems, Inc. We will keep your system operating properly and keep you worry free. (For more information on these contracts contact us today.) Visit our Q&A section often for answers to commonly asked questions. Updated monthly.

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All-Temp Systems, Inc. 16 Pond Street • Milford, MA 01757 1-800-ATS-FOR-U (1-800-287-3678) • 508-478-0088