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AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
Air Conditioning Systems Today
Efficiencies have improved greatly in the past several years so that
today’s equipment can cool your home for $100 to $150 a season rather
than $100 a month. Design improvements have led to much quieter
units as well.
SEER – Seer stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This
is the industry’s standard by which the efficiency of all air conditioning
units are measured. The higher the number, the higher the efficiency
and the less it will cost to operate the equipment. The minimum
efficiency level set by Federal Regulations is 13 Seer. Equipment
ranges in efficiencies from 13 Seer up to 19 Seer. Two-speed units
are also available, providing greater comfort with very quiet operational
levels.
Air Conditioning Refrigerants
R-22 vs. R410A Refrigerant
R410A is the new EPA-recognized chlorine-free refrigerant that provides
exceptional comfort without exacting a costly environmental toll.
R-22 has been around for many years and will still be available for many
years as the following information shows. What makes R-22 so harmful
to the atmosphere is the chlorine found in the chemical make-up of R-22.
One chlorine molecule can attach itself to as many as 100 ozone molecules
and destroy them.
R-22 Phase-out schedule:
2004 – Production drop of 35% of 1998 levels.
2006 – Minimum efficiency manufacturers are allowed to produce is raised
to 13 Seer
2010 – Manufactures can no longer manufacture R-22 equipment
2020 – No more US production or import
Why Air Conditioning Makes Sense In Colorado
In spite of our high altitude and low humidity, summer can be very
uncomfortable due to heat, dust, and pollen. Air conditioning does
just what the name implies. It conditions the air, filtering out
allergens, reducing humidity and generally making you feel more comfortable.
- How To Select An Air Conditioning System
Just like a furnace, the best air conditioning system is one that fits
your home's physical requirements as well as your lifestyle and budget.
- Efficiency Ratings
Keeping energy costs down requires a combination of lower energy usage
and higher system efficiency. The more energy you use, the more
important efficiency ratings become. Today's energy-efficient
air conditioning systems are economical to operate. You may be
surprised at how little it costs to provide so much added comfort.
SEER efficiency ratings for air conditioners start at 13.00 and go as
high as 21.00. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.
It is used as a guide to establish which unit will perform its work
with the least amount of energy usage. The higher the number,
the more efficient the unit, and the lower the operating cost.
As of 2005, all air conditioners manufactured in the United States must
have a minimum SEER of at least 13.00.
- What About Refrigerants?
It is unlawful to intentionally vent refrigerant into the atmosphere,
and anyone working on air conditioning and/or refrigeration equipment
must be tested and certified by the EPA. American Air has been
using certified recovery equipment since 1991, and has been in the forefront
of adopting environment-friendly practices.
- Good Housekeeping
All Lennox products now carry the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval,
further proof of Lennox's commitment to quality and trust.
- Quality
American Air is proud to represent the top air conditioning manufacturers
in the nation, including LENNOX, TRANE, and GOODMAN.
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