If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Troy, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy expenses.
However, there are many differing models available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically includes a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?
At Edington Heating & Cooling Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 937-558-9478. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric costs.
Does SEER Rating Even Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 937-558-9478 for support.
If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past couple of years, with big progress in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust 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 utility costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification means the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through smaller utility costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less electricity 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 run at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your energy bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more energy.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to disperse cool air around your residence. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise 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 Edington Heating & Cooling Inc are ready to assist you. Call us at 937-558-9478 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.
