If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Alliance, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical costs.
However, there are many different options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number usually is accompanied by a more expensive cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?
At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 308-321-4703. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can influence your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.
How Does SEER Rating Influence My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 308-321-4703 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was put in before that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly changed in the past couple of years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning expenses, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through reduced utility bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your energy costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more electrity.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to disperse chilled air around your home. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces are available to support you. Give us a call at 308-321-4703 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.