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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling expenses.

However, there are many varying solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER number often includes a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is right for your home?

At HCE Systems, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 276-302-0076. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. 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 installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 276-302-0076 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric costs, since the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp 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 great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through cheaper air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your power costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to distribute cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at HCE Systems are available to support you. Give us a call at 276-302-0076 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.