If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Covington, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how effective your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy bills.
However, there are many varying models out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often involves a more expensive price. So, how do you know which one is right for your residence?
At Covington Air Systems, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at (770) 462-5319. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner 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 go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy bills.
What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the north 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 find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at (770) 462-5319 for help.
If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly advanced in the past couple of years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electric bills, because the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your current 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 costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification means the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over time through smaller utility costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electrical bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more power.
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 distribute cool air across your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Covington Air Systems are here to support you. Reach us at (770) 462-5319 to book your free home comfort analysis now.