If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Lancaster, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electric costs.

However, there are lots of varying options on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At Fairfield Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 740-331-4331. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your energy costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be 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 installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 740-331-4331 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC bills, since the thermostat can automatically 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 around 30–50% on annual electricity costs. 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 higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over the years through lower electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less power than other new models, 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 varying 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 operate for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to distribute chilled 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 receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Fairfield Heating & Cooling are here to assist you. Call us at 740-331-4331 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.