If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Pflugerville, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric expenses.
However, there are many differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often includes a higher price. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?
At Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 512-355-1482. Our experienced 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.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can affect your family’s comfort. And your utility expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at minimum 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 rating is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 512-355-1482 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with huge developments in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical expenses, since the thermostat can intuitively adjust 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 close to 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is It Wiser to Install a High SEER Rating?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The best efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation means the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned throughout the years through cheaper cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your power costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more electrity.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to send chilled air around your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Evenaire Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help. Give us a call at 512-355-1482 to request your free home comfort analysis now.