EnergyGuide Labels 101

Are you in the market for a new HVAC system for your home in Arlington, Virginia? If so, you’re sure to encounter some EnergyGuide labels. These labels make it easier to compare different systems and choose the best one for your home — but only if you understand them.

What They Look Like

EnergyGuide labels are bright yellow rectangles with black writing. They feature the EnergyGuide logo prominently at the top, followed by a wealth of information about the product in question.

How to Read Them

In the upper-right corner, you’ll find the make, model number and appliance type. In the upper-left corner, you’ll see a list of key features. If you look in the middle, you’ll see a dollar amount that signifies how much you can expect to pay to operate the appliance for an entire year. You’ll also notice a number line showing the cost range of similar models.

Beneath the operating costs box, you’ll see a figure (expressed in kilowatts-per-hour) that estimates how much electricity the appliance will use each year. You can multiply this number by the rate on your electric bill for a more accurate estimate of annual operating costs. Finally, if the appliance meets efficiency standards set by the EPA and Department of Energy, the Energy Star logo will appear in the lower-right corner.

What Matters Most

If you only look at one thing on the logo, look for the Energy Star logo. Energy Star models use less energy than standard models. As a result, they’re better for the environment and your monthly energy bill.

How to Use Them

As you narrow your options, use the EnergyGuide label to compare the efficiency and features of various models. Thanks to the operating cost range displayed on each label, you can also use a product’s EnergyGuide label in isolation to judge whether its efficiency is below, above or on par with similar models. As a result, you’ll purchase the perfect system for your home.

Need more help? Give Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning a call at 703-783-0145. Our NATE-certified serice technicians can walk you through the various options, answer any questions, and install your HVAC system of choice.

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