What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Narvon, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling costs.

However, there are many varying models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating often involves a more expensive price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your residence?

At Ameri-Tec, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 717-479-4950. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your utility expenses.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 717-479-4950 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly evolved in the past couple of years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing 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 bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation means the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid throughout the years through reduced electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your energy bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air across your home. Furnaces only run for approximately 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 pros at Ameri-Tec are ready to help. Reach us at 717-479-4950 to request your free home comfort analysis now.