If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Greensburg, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling costs.
However, there are a lot of differing solutions out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?
At Wallpe Heating & Cooling, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 812-663-7252. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your energy expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at least 13 SEER in the north 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 rating is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 812-663-7252 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electrical expenses, because the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual air conditioning expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back over time through lower electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without consuming a lot more power.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse chilled air around your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Wallpe Heating & Cooling are here to help. Call us at 812-663-7252 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.