SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. The higher the SEER rating, the less your unit will cost to operate.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is a measurement similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of a heat pump.

Saving energy means saving money on your regular household bills, so you need to look carefully at how energy efficient your household appliances are. The biggest single item on your utility bills will be the cost of your heating and air conditioning system.

There are some relatively simple ways to be sure that you are as energy efficient as possible. One is to install an energy efficient furnace, and a second is to check your air conditioning SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficient Rating). The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the system is.

Almost any air conditioning system that was fitted before 1987 will have a SEER rating (seasonal energy efficiency rating) of around 5 or 6. Today, with modern manufacturing capabilities and increased efficiency, most air conditioning equipment has a SEER rating of around 13. The government specifies that air conditioning equipment must have a SEER rating of 13 or over.

SEER ratings mean cost efficiency. If a unit with a SEER rating of 6 is replaced with a comparable unit with a SEER rating of 13, there will be a yearly savings of up to 50% on energy bills. With this kind of saving, there is every reason to replace an old air conditioning system, making sure that the new system has as high a SEER rating as possible.

Another tip to save costs is to install an energy efficient central air conditioner. This means that there is one cooling unit, and the air is ducted to the rooms that require cooling - much more efficient than separate cooling units.

• Upgrading to a high efficiency air conditioning system can substantially reduce your energy costs.
• Today’s high efficiency air conditioners are rated on their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The more energy efficient the air conditioner, the higher its SEER rating.
• When considering air conditioner installation, look for models with a SEER rating of 13 or higher.
• By upgrading to a new high efficiency air conditioning system some homeowners may qualify for a cash rebate from their regional utility company.