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When you’re working with your HVAC contractor, it helps to know a few key terms so you can be sure you’re both on the same page. Like any other field, heating and cooling contractors use standard terminology that is universal throughout the industry. We have compiled a few of these terms to help get you started: AFUE – Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency Measures the efficiency of the combustion heating component of your HVAC system Can apply to any fuel source including fuel oil, propane and natural gas Higher percentages indicate higher efficiency, with extremely efficient condensing furnaces having an AFUE as high as 97 percent SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio Indicates the efficiency of the cooling component of your HVAC system Calculated based on both the cooling output and total energy input during the cooling season Minimum rating in the United States must be 13 Energy Star A/C units must be rated 14 or higher MERV – Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value Measures the effectiveness of air filters The rating scale is between 1 and 20 Higher ratings indicate better efficiency at capturing particles MERV ratings of 4 indicate minimal filtration, while a rating like 12 represents a superior residential filter Ratings of 16 and higher capture at least 95 percent of particles and are used in surgical settings NATE – North American Technician Excellence NATE is the premier HVAC technician certifying body in the United States Technicians who are certified through NATE must meet minimum standards of excellence, pass a series of tests, and participate in ongoing education Working with a NATE certified technician decreases the likelihood of call-backs and ensures professional service Certified technicians are required to stay current in their field, which means you will benefit from the latest developments in energy efficiency and HVAC technology Now that you know a bit more about the terminology used in the industry, you can better communicate with your heating and cooling contractor and technicians.Pipe Works Services employs NATE-certified technicians to provide heating and cooling service throughout New Jersey, so you can be sure you are getting the best service available. Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide. Pipe Works Services serves Chatham, NJ, and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website.
