If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Laurel, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A bigger number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electric bill.
However, there are lots of different solutions available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating typically includes a more expensive price. So, how do you know which one is right for your residence?
At H&C Heating and Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 301-960-3247. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can affect your home’s comfort. And your electric costs.
Does My Air Conditioner’s SEER Rating Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 301-960-3247 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was put in before that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC costs, since the thermostat can automatically adjust 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 expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Ranking Ideal?
An air conditioner with a higher 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® endorsement. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines 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 utility costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, use 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 technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at different speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your power costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more energy.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to disperse cool air throughout your house. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at H&C Heating and Cooling are available to help. Give us a call at 301-960-3247 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.