If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in South Beloit and Belvidere, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling expenses.
However, there are a lot of different models out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically involves a more expensive price. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?
At Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 877-389-2465. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.
Does My Air Conditioner’s SEER Rating Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. 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 unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 877-389-2465 for support.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past several years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on cooling costs, because the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is a Higher SEER Ranking Ideal?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification shows the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through lower utility costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your electric bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more electrity.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to distribute cold air around your home. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc are available to support you. Give us a call at 877-389-2465 to request your free home comfort analysis now.