What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in South Beloit and Belvidere, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling bills.

However, there are lots of varying solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER number typically is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your home?

At Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 877-389-2465. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 877-389-2465 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC costs, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through reduced electric bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to distribute cool air around your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc are ready to support you. Call us at 877-389-2465 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.