What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re needing air conditioner installation in West Jefferson, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how productive your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.

However, there are many varying models to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically involves a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your home?

At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 614-879-9091. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 rating is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 614-879-9091 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning expenses, since the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll normally get the difference returned over time through smaller power bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your utility bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, 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 specialists at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. are available to help. Reach us at 614-879-9091 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.