If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Ballwin and St. Charles, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.
However, there are many varying options on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is right for your residence?
At Air Alliance Team, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 636-206-4250. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be 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 house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 636-206-4250 for support.
If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning expenses, as 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, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over time through smaller electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your electrical expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more energy.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to send chilled air around your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Air Alliance Team are here to support you. Call us at 636-206-4250 to request your free home comfort analysis now.