What Is the Right SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in New Castle, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy costs.

However, there are many different solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking usually is accompanied by a more expensive cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your residence?

At Central Heating & Plumbing, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 724-401-1843. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility bills.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER rating is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 724-401-1843 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly evolved in the past several years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical expenses, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual cooling expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned throughout the years through cheaper electric costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your power costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to distribute cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Central Heating & Plumbing are available to support you. Reach us at 724-401-1843 to request your free home comfort analysis now.