If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Phoenix, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bill.
However, there are lots of differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?
At Integrity AC & Heating LLC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 602-971-0567. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can affect your home’s comfort. And your electric bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the northern 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 number is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 602-971-0567 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly advanced in the past couple of years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical costs, because the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual cooling bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is a Higher SEER Rating Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper power expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your cooling bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more electrity.
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 depends on this system’s blower to distribute cold air around your residence. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Integrity AC & Heating LLC are ready to support you. Reach us at 602-971-0567 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.