If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Rock Hill, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.
However, there are many varying options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a bigger price. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?
At US Air Heating and Cooling, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 803-220-0761. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can affect your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.
Does My Air Conditioner’s SEER Rating Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 803-220-0761 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric costs, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Number 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, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through reduced electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your electric expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.
When adding 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 distribute chilled air across your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at US Air Heating and Cooling are available to assist you. Reach us at 803-220-0761 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.