If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Marshalltown, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy bill.
However, there are lots of different options out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your house?
At B & G HVAC, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 641-316-3360. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical expenses.
How Does SEER Rating Influence My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 641-316-3360 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning costs, because the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electrical costs. Your savings relate 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll generally get the difference back throughout the years through reduced electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at different speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to disperse cold air around your house. 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 receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at B & G HVAC are ready to help. Reach us at 641-316-3360 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.