If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Savage, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical expenses.
However, there are lots of differing options out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number often is accompanied by a higher price. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?
At Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 952-373-0377. Our experienced 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 review SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your utility expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 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 replaced or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 952-373-0377 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly evolved in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can intuitively manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll normally get the difference back over the years through reduced air conditioning bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less electricity than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your family while keeping your utility bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more electricity.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send chilled air around your house. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning are available to help. Reach us at 952-373-0377 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.
