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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.

However, there are many differing solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating often includes a higher price. So, how do you know which one is best 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 skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern 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 number is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 614-879-9091 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling expenses, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity expenses. 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 better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through reduced electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less electricity than other new models, 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 operate at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electric bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cool air across your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. are ready to support you. Call us at 614-879-9091 to book your free home comfort analysis today.