What Is the Right SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Alliance, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric bills.

However, there are a lot of different options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number usually is accompanied by a bigger price. So, how can you find out which one is right for your house?

At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 308-762-1613. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose 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 they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility bills.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made 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 unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 308-762-1613 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly evolved in the past couple of years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC expenses, because the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re out.

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

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll normally get the difference back over the years through cheaper utility bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your energy costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to distribute cool air throughout your house. Furnaces only work 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 perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces are here to help. Give us a call at 308-762-1613 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.