If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Lansing, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy expenses.
However, there are lots of varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number usually is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?
At Everest Heating & Cooling, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 913-845-9463. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric expenses.
Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 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 put in or what its SEER number is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 913-845-9463 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly advanced in the past several 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 cooling expenses, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification means the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference back over the years through smaller air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, consume about 8% less power than other new units, 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 improves comfort for your residence while keeping your energy expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more energy.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to distribute chilled air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Everest Heating & Cooling are ready to help. Give us a call at 913-845-9463 to book your free home comfort analysis today.
