# 9 HVAC Terms Every Massachusetts Homeowner Should Be Comfortable Using > Learn these nine HVAC terms so you can feel comfortable using them during the next service call for your home's heating and air conditioning systems. ![hvac terms, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/air-conditioning-maintenance-tips.gif)The last time you hired a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technician, he probably used a bunch of jargon you may not have understood. ![hvac terms, Holliston, Massachusetts](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/air-conditioning-maintenance-tips.gif) Arm yourself with knowledge of these nine HVAC terms so you can feel comfortable using them during your next service call. - **SEER:** Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a cooling efficiency rating. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is. The minimum allowed today is 13 SEER. - **HSPF:** Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, a heating efficiency rating given to heat pumps (which also earn SEER ratings for their cooling efficiency). Again, higher numbers indicate greater efficiency. - **AFUE:** Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, a heating efficiency rating given to furnaces. The closer the number is to 100, the more efficient the furnace is. The minimum allowed today is 80 percent AFUE. - **IAQ:** Indoor air quality. A technician may refer to [your home’s IAQ](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/better-indoor-air-quality-make-home-haven-hot-outside.html), which you want to maintain to reduce allergies and asthma. - **NATE:** North American Technician Excellence. NATE tests and certifies HVAC technicians based on rigorous industry standards. Only trust a contractor who employees [NATE-certified technicians](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/expertise-stands-behind-nate-logo.html) to ensure a job well done. - **Energy Star:** Consider Energy Star-qualified equipment when you upgrade your furnace or air conditioner, for incredible efficiency and enhanced features. - **Load calculation:** Insist that the contractor you hire formally calculate the load when sizing new heating and cooling equipment. The load calculation is based on square footage, climate, occupants, home orientation, window layout, number of rooms, insulation levels and more. - **R-22 vs. R-410A refrigerant:** If you have an older air conditioner, it might still run on R-22 refrigerant. The EPA has mandated that all new systems run on more environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant. Talk to a knowledgeable technician about your options if you require a refrigerant-related repair on an R-22 system. - **Zoning:** An HVAC contractor may recommend a [zoning system](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/zoning-systems-can-end-the-thermostat-wars-in-your-house.html) if your home has multiple levels or a sprawling floor plan. It involves installing multiple thermostats for customized temperature control across your home. To learn more, please contact the HVAC professionals at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). We serve the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/hvac-terms-massachusetts-homeowners-should-learn.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/hvac-terms-massachusetts-homeowners-should-learn.html)