What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Genoa, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical bills.

However, there are a lot of varying models to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking typically includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?

At Assured Appliance & Heating & Air, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 847-306-8990. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 847-306-8990 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past several years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning bills, as the thermostat can intuitively manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation means the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over time through lower electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less electricity 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 run at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your cooling costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to send cold air around your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Assured Appliance & Heating & Air are ready to help. Call us at 847-306-8990 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.