SEER, AFUE, and HSPF are energy efficiency ratings used to assess the performance and
efficiency of different types of heating and cooling systems.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of the cooling efficiency used for Air
Conditioners and Heat Pumps. It represents the ratio of the cooling output provided by the
system during a typical cooling season to the energy input it consumes. The higher the SEER
rating, the more energy-efficient the system is, and the lower the operating costs.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is a measure of the heating efficiency used for
Furnaces and Boilers. It indicates the percentage of energy from the fuel that is converted into
usable heat over the course of a heating season. A higher AFUE rating means that a greater
percentage of the fuel is converted into heat, leading to better energy efficiency and reduced
heating costs.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) measures the heating efficiency of heat pump
systems during the heating season. It quantifies the ratio of the heat output provided by the
heat pump to the electricity input it consumes. Higher HSPF ratings indicate more efficient heat
pump systems, which can provide better heating performance while using less energy.
These ratings are essential for consumers to make informed decisions when purchasing heating
and cooling systems, but remember, while Higher SEER, AFUE, or HSPF ratings indicate more
energy-efficient systems they may come with a higher initial cost. It's essential as a homeowner
to balance efficiency, initial investment, and long-term energy savings when selecting a heating
or cooling system for your home.

American Standard warranties cover parts for defects during the warranty period, but
do not cover labor. All manufacturers’ warranties are specific to the model numbers, serial
numbers, and installation dates of your products. Any details regarding your manufacturer’s
warranty are provided with your equipment. Any labor warranty provided is covered by Ed
Blancher Service on equipment we install and will be specified in our installation proposal to
you.

With proper maintenance and care, most modern HVAC systems are expected to have a
lifespan of 10 to 12 years. It's important to understand that manufacturers have made
deliberate changes over the past three decades to increase energy efficiency and incorporate
technological advancements. These changes have effectively reduced the average lifespan of
HVAC units from what they once were. The use of lighter and more cost-effective materials
contributes to increased energy efficiency; however, the trade-off is that these materials are
not as robust as older, more durable components. As a result, as HVAC equipment ages, its
efficiency may gradually decrease, leading to more frequent repair needs.

The only way to get parts for any A/C appliance is through an authorized dealer. As an American Standard dealer, Ed Blancher Service can provide you with the correct, up to date parts for your system.

Filters for your American Standard unit may be made specifically for its brand, with higher-quality materials that are only given to authorized dealers. Give us a call to inquire about any furnace media filters today!

Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, lowers energy costs, and prolongs equipment life. Annual maintenance is recommended for HVAC systems.

In some cases, yes, you can replace only the outdoor unit if your system is older, even if
your previous system used the outdated R-22 refrigerant. For a partial replacement to work
seamlessly, the indoor components must be in satisfactory working condition and not
approaching the end of their operational life. However, replacing only the outdoor unit can
reduce efficiency. It is worth knowing that a matched system ensures components work
together optimally, maintaining proper cycle times, humidity control, and minimizing system
noise. A matched system improves efficiency and overall performance.

Standard 1” filters that are found at return air supplies should be replaced once every
month for optimal performance. Regardless of what the packaging may claim, indoor dirt and
debris builds up and restricts airflow in your system regardless of which filter you have. To
ensure optimal performance, a filter should not be used more than 30 days.

The best temperature to set your thermostat depends on your personal comfort
preferences, the season, and your energy-saving goals. The general consensus when trying to
save on energy costs, is to consider setting your thermostat higher in the summer and lower in
the winter when you're not at home or while you sleep. Each degree of adjustment can lead to
energy savings. In the summer, a common recommendation is to set your thermostat to around
78-80°F when you're at home and active. When you're away or asleep, consider setting the
thermostat a few degrees higher at 85°F to save on cooling costs. In the winter, aim for a
thermostat setting of around 68-70°F when you're at home and active. This range is
comfortable for most people and helps save on heating expenses. Lower the thermostat when
you're away or at night but be mindful of comfort and safety. Avoid setting it too low to prevent
freezing pipes or discomfort. It's essential to find a balance between comfort and energy
efficiency, as well as to consider factors like humidity and insulation. Regular maintenance of
your heating and cooling systems can also contribute to better energy efficiency. Additionally,
some homeowners may benefit from investing in a smart thermostat, which can learn your
preferences and adjust settings automatically to maximize comfort and savings. Ultimately, the
best thermostat setting depends on your comfort level. Adjust the thermostat to a temperature
that suits your preferences while keeping energy conservation in mind.

Smart thermostats offer precise temperature control, energy savings, and the
convenience of setting temperature schedules, as well as offering easy access from your smart
phone or internet browser. While conventional thermostats are the cheaper alternative and
tend to be very simple to use, smart, Wi-Fi enabled thermostats offer the most convenience by
far.

No, an oversized system can cool or heat your home too quickly, leading to inefficiency,
humidity issues, and increased wear and tear. Proper sizing upon installation is essential for
efficiency and comfort, which is why it’s so important to have the system in your home properly
sized by a trained professional.

Variable speed fans can adjust their rotation speed to align with your home's heating
and cooling requirements. Typically, they function at lower speeds, ensuring a consistent and
efficient flow of warm or cool air into your living space. This not only aids in regulating humidity
levels but also contributes to cost savings and reduced system noise. When temperatures spike
or drop, the fan's speed escalates to meet heightened demand, ensuring your comfort needs
are consistently met, even during scorching summer days or chilly winter nights.

In response to environmental concerns, there has been a global shift towards using
more environmentally friendly refrigerants. One of the key changes has been the transition
from using R-22 to more eco-friendly alternatives. The most common replacement for R-22 is R-
410A, which has become the standard for new residential air conditioning systems. R-410A has
a much lower impact on the ozone layer compared to R-22. However, the HVAC industry
continues to evolve, and manufacturers are actively working on refrigerants with even lower
impact on the environment. Some of these newer refrigerants are being developed right now to
be used in the coming years. These new refrigerants, that will go into effect in 2025, are
designed to be more environmentally responsible and align with global efforts to reduce the
carbon footprint of air conditioning and refrigeration.