How to Upgrade Your HVAC Products by Utilizing the EnergyGuide Label

Chances are you’ve come across the EnergyGuide label shown on home appliances. In the case that you’re searching for a new heat pump, central air conditioner or other HVAC equipment that is associated with the EnergyGuide label program, the information shown on the label plays an essential role in maximizing your investment. Read on to see how this neon yellow label can make a difference.

Energy Savings Guidebook

To protect consumers, the EnergyGuide program stands regulated through the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The label’s purpose is to assist consumers in choosing the appropriate product by conveniently comparing similar products with energy efficiency information supplied by the manufacturers. Devices required to show the label include clothes washers, refrigerators, water heaters and furnaces.

You can use the following comparison topics shown on EnergyGuide labels to help you understand the lifetime costs for the product you’re looking into:

• Use the information on the label to compare major features for similar prices.
• You can compare the projected energy usage as well as operating costs between models.
• Calculate lifetime costs by plugging in the local rates for the utilities in your Austin home to approximate the annual electricity consumption.

Interpreting EnergyGuide Labels

The EnergyGuide’s product information is easy to understand, but you need to identify the meaning of each section in order to utilize EnergyGuide to your advantage while shopping for upgraded HVAC equipment. Each part of the label is described below.

• Advanced features: On the top left-hand corner you can see the product’s advanced features.
• Manufacturer information: The equipment size, model number and the product manufacturer are printed in the top right-hand corner.
• Costs for operating: A graphic shown in the center of the label displays the estimated annual cost.
• Annual energy consumption: Found below the costs for operating graphic is the product’s approximated annual energy usage.
• Energy Star: A blue Energy Star logo will be shown in the right-hand corner on the bottom if the equipment has been Energy Star-certified.

For additional tips about utilizing the EnergyGuide label for your benefit, contact Airco. We proudly serve residents all over the Austin area.