What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re needing 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. In short, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a more expensive cost. So, how can you determine which one is best for your home?

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

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your utility expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. 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 ranking is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 877-389-2465 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly advanced in the past several years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical bills, since the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

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

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference back over time through reduced cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your power bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send cold air across your home. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

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