What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for AC Systems?

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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.

However, there are many varying options on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking usually involves a bigger price. So, how can you determine which one is best for your house?

At Brookwood Inc, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 641-316-9803. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in 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 641-316-9803 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past several years, with big breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over the years through reduced electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your utility costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When buying 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 relies on this unit’s blower to send chilled air throughout your residence. 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 receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Brookwood Inc are available to support you. Reach us at 641-316-9803 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.