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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A bigger number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric costs.

However, there are many different models available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically includes a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your house?

At Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 360-255-5857. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric bills.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. 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 installed or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 360-255-5857 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling bills, since the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation shows the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference returned over time through reduced utility costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your cooling bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to distribute cold air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning are here to assist you. Give us a call at 360-255-5857 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.