The terms that come up most when discussing a repair, install, or quote — explained without the jargon.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio — measures how efficiently an AC or heat pump cools over a full season. Higher is more efficient. SEER2 is the updated testing standard used since 2023.
British Thermal Unit — the standard measure of heating/cooling capacity. A properly sized system matches BTU output to your home's actual heat gain and loss, not just square footage.
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value — rates how effectively an air filter captures particles, from MERV 1 (minimal) to MERV 16 (near-HEPA). Higher isn't always better if your system can't handle the added airflow resistance.
A single system that both heats and cools by moving heat rather than generating it directly — more efficient than a separate furnace and AC in most climates, including Southern California's.
The network of channels distributing conditioned air through your home. Leaky or undersized ductwork is one of the most common causes of uneven comfort and high bills, independent of how good your equipment is.
The industry-standard method for sizing HVAC equipment based on your home's actual insulation, windows, orientation, and square footage — not a rule-of-thumb guess.
The resistance to airflow inside your ductwork. Too much static pressure (from a filter that's too restrictive, or undersized ducts) reduces efficiency and can shorten equipment life.
The chemical that absorbs and releases heat as it cycles through your system. R-410A has been the residential standard; newer systems are transitioning to lower-impact refrigerants like R-32.
A ductless heating/cooling system with an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor wall units — common for ADUs, additions, and homes without existing ductwork.
A heat pump paired with a gas furnace as backup, switching automatically to whichever is more efficient based on outdoor temperature.
Have a system-sizing or efficiency question specific to your home? Book a visit and we'll walk through it in person.