What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for AC Systems?

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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric bills.

However, there are a lot of varying models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating usually involves a higher cost. So, how can you find out which one is best for your residence?

At HCE Systems, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 276-302-0076. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate 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.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your energy expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 276-302-0076 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly evolved in the past few years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility costs, since the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling bills. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through reduced air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less electricity than other new systems, 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 operate at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cool air around your residence. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at HCE Systems are available to help. Reach us at 276-302-0076 to set your free home comfort analysis today.