If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Savage, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling bill.
However, there are lots of differing options to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating usually is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?
At Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 952-373-0377. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can influence your home’s comfort. And your electric bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER rating is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 952-373-0377 for help.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly evolved in the past couple of years, with huge developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your existing 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 bills. Your savings relate to 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper air conditioning costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less energy than other new models, 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 run at different speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send cool air across 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 advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning are ready to support you. Call us at 952-373-0377 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.