What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?

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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number signifies 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 better SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is right for your residence?

At Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 519-296-4437. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 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 rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 519-296-4437 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly evolved in the past few years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on utility costs, as the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual air conditioning 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 better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through smaller electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and higher, need 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your energy expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to send cool air across your residence. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning are here to assist you. Reach us at 519-296-4437 to set your free home comfort analysis today.