If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Holdrege, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it gauges how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bills.
However, there are many varying solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking frequently includes a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is best for your home?
At Durable Service, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 308-995-8177. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.
What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 308-995-8177 for help.
If your air conditioner was put in before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with huge developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility bills, because the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through smaller power costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, 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 technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your residence while keeping your air conditioning expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more energy.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to send cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work 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 specialists at Durable Service are ready to support you. Reach us at 308-995-8177 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.
