If you’re needing air conditioner installation in West Jefferson, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric costs.
However, there are lots of varying models available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your house?
At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 614-879-9091. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your energy expenses.
Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 614-879-9091 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility costs, since the thermostat can automatically manage 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 an estimated 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 using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation means the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll normally get the difference back throughout the years through reduced electric bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 work at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your power bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to send cool air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. are ready to help. Give us a call at 614-879-9091 to request your free home comfort analysis today.