If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Cambridge, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy expenses.
However, there are many varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number often is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?
At Pliescott HVAC Services LLC , we provide 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 find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 410-228-4822 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly changed in the past couple of years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning bills, since the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is a Higher SEER Ranking Optimal?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over the years through lower electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your residence while keeping your utility expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more electrity.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Pliescott HVAC Services LLC are here to assist you. Reach us at 410-228-4822 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.