Equipment and Sales
At Parker we offer the highest efficiency equipment available using the latest technology
Terms like SEER, AFUE and HSPF are commonly used to describe efficiency ratings in the indoor weather industry. Offering indoor weather equipment that ranges from the minimum industry requirements to the world’s most totally energy efficient, your indoor weather expert can help you choose the indoor weather equipment that’s right for you.
AFUE- (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is the standard measurement of efficiency for gas and oil-fired furnaces. Given in percentages, this number tells you how much of your fuel is used to heat your home and how much fuel is simply wasted. The higher the AFUE rating, the greater the efficiency.
SEER- (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the measure of efficiency by which the cooling process of air conditioners and heat pumps is rated. The higher the SEER number, the greater the efficiency, which translates into greater energy savings. Today, U.S. regulatory agencies require all new models to have a 10.0 SEER rating.
HSPF- (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is the efficiency measurement used to gauge the efficiency of the heating mode of heat pumps. Again, the higher the number, the greater the efficiency. Today’s models are required to have a 6.8 HSPF.
Bels- Bels-the rating system by which sound is measured. The bels scale is a logarithmic scale like the Richter scale…even a small difference in rating can mean a significant difference in actual sound. The higher the number, the greater the noise level. A diesel truck 10 feet away is rated at 9.2 bels. The sound of a refrigerator running is rated at 7.0 bels.
Learn more about our equipment and options
Serving Marylanders Since 1942
For more information on any of these products, contact us or give us a call and we will gladly send you more information.
We can also arrange for a free estimate.
410-465-3800
Choosing the Right Contractor
Top Ten Proven Tips For Selecting a Dealer
- Check credentials. Before making your choice, call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the dealer is reputable. Also, find out if the dealer is a member of a local association such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. This, in itself, is some indication of reliability.
- Ask the dealer about his training and experience. Many dealers take advantage of training by their manufacturer or distributor to help you determine your comfort needs. As a result, when they make recommendations, you can be more assured they have selected the right system for your home. They are also trained in installation and service.
- Ask for references. Former customers are an excellent source of information. Call these individuals and ask if they were pleased with the dealer’s work.
- Expect an on-site evaluation visit. A good dealer should take a personal, thorough look at your home, evaluate your overall comfort needs and recommend the best system for you. Beware of a dealer that simply takes information over the phone.
- Check local licenses. Depending on where you live, the dealer may have to comply with certain local or state regulations, so ask to see any applicable state and local licenses and insurance forms for liability and workmen’s compensation.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask for details about the firm’s experience, its long-term stability and the expertise of its staff. This is especially true if you’re adding air conditioning to an existing home where ductwork must be added. In this case, experience is a factor since it will take more thought, planning and know-how to get the job done.
- Get a written proposal. To make a fair comparison, be sure the bids you are looking at include the services you’ve requested and are based on the same size and efficiency equipment and the same quality of workmanship. Be wary of a dealer who offers unrealistically low prices; it may mean corners are being cut in crucial areas.
- Inquire about equipment and labor warranties. Warranties vary according to manufacturers. Make sure your dealer fully explains the terms of the factory warranty. In addition, many manufacturers offer optional extended warranties, which you may wish to investigate.
- Ask you dealer about whether or not they offer preventative maintenance agreements. This is one of the best ways to ensure optimum efficiency and performance from your system.
- Finally, insist on a written and signed agreement. Your home’s indoor comfort is important. Don’t gamble with it by selecting an air conditioning dealer by chance.