If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Kingsville, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric bill.
However, there are lots of different models on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking frequently involves a higher price tag. So, how do you know which one is right for your house?
At Four Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating LLC, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 361-214-1203. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can influence your family’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the north 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 look at the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 361-214-1203 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC bills, as the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility expenses. 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned throughout the years through lower power bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, need 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your family while keeping your cooling bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without requiring a lot more electrity.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to send chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Four Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating LLC are ready to help. Reach us at 361-214-1203 to request your free home comfort analysis today.