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 a nutshell, it gauges how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling costs.

However, there are lots of different models available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating frequently includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?

At Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 952-373-0377. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 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 put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 952-373-0377 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC bills, since the thermostat can intuitively adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned over the years through smaller electrical bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less energy 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 cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want 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 disperse cold air across your house. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning are here to support you. Reach us at 952-373-0377 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.