If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Swanton, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling bills.
However, there are lots of different models on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking often is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your residence?
At Northwest Services, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 419-548-5017. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your electrical costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER rating is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 419-548-5017 for support.
If your air conditioner was put in before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning costs, because the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your present 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 expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement shows the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through lower electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest 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 family while keeping your utility costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse cool air around your residence. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Northwest Services are here to support you. Reach us at 419-548-5017 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.