If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Lexington, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electric costs.
However, there are a lot of different solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking usually involves a bigger price. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your house?
At James Heating & A/C, Inc, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 336-853-6070. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can influence your family’s comfort. And your electrical bills.
Does My Air Conditioner’s SEER Rating Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated 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 number is, you can check the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 336-853-6070 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electric expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual air conditioning expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Rating Optimal?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification means the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through reduced electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This improves comfort for your residence while keeping your air conditioning expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing 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 due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to send cold air around your residence. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at James Heating & A/C, Inc are available to assist you. Call us at 336-853-6070 to request your free home comfort analysis today.