What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electrical expenses.

However, there are many different models out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically is accompanied by a higher cost. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?

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

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your energy bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northern 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 ranking is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 360-255-5857 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 major advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC expenses, since the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your current 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 expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature 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 highest efficiency ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement means the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll normally get the difference returned over time through cheaper electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your air conditioning expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send cold air throughout your house. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help. Call us at 360-255-5857 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.