If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Lancaster, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling bills.
However, there are many varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number frequently includes a more expensive cost. So, how can you find out which one is best for your residence?
At Fairfield Heating & Cooling, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 740-331-4331. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 740-331-4331 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past few years, with huge developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical expenses, as the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.
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 electrical costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over time through cheaper electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less energy than other new units, 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 work at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electric bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more power.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to disperse cool air across your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Fairfield Heating & Cooling are ready to help. Give us a call at 740-331-4331 to book your free home comfort analysis now.
