If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Rockford, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines 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 expenses.
However, there are lots of varying models to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number often involves a higher price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your house?
At Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at (815) 914-6197. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. 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 rating is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at (815) 914-6197 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electric costs, because 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, adding a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
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 big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll normally get the difference back over the years through lower power bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest 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 house while keeping your cooling costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling are ready to help. Give us a call at (815) 914-6197 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.