If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Athol, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming 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 different solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating often includes a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your home?
At Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 208-561-1226. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. 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 home’s comfort. And your electric expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 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 replaced or what its SEER number is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 208-561-1226 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. 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 systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned throughout the years through smaller power bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest 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 house while keeping your electrical costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more power.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse cold air across your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling are here to assist you. Give us a call at 208-561-1226 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.
