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 a nutshell, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical costs.

However, there are a lot of varying models available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your house?

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 skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your energy expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 410-228-4822 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on AC expenses, as the thermostat can intuitively adjust your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through lower utility costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, need 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air around your residence. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting 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 Pliescott HVAC Services LLC are here to help. Give us a call at 410-228-4822 to book your free home comfort analysis now.