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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical expenses.

However, there are a lot of different models on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating often is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your house?

At Pliescott HVAC Services LLC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 410-228-4822. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 410-228-4822 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed before that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly evolved in the past several years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling costs, since the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your thermostat 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 models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over the years through cheaper electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your cooling costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC are here to help. Give us a call at 410-228-4822 to request your free home comfort analysis today.