If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Troy, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric expenses.

However, there are many varying options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is best for your home?

At Edington Heating & Cooling Inc, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 937-558-9478. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 937-558-9478 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly evolved in the past several years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling costs, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings depend on 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 high 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 often pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over time through lower cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less power than other new systems, 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 cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electrical bills reduced. 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 because your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to disperse cold air around your residence. 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 enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Edington Heating & Cooling Inc are here to help. Give us a call at 937-558-9478 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.