How Does SEER Rating Impact My Air Conditioner?

August 20, 2020

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Naples, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number often involves a more expensive cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your residence?

At CNR Air Conditioning Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 239-241-5318. 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.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can impact your home’s comfort. And your electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at least 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 locate the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 239-241-5318 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly advanced in the past few years, with big progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC expenses, because the thermostat can intuitively adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

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 electrical costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over time through reduced power expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, need about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your power bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send cold air across your house. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at CNR Air Conditioning Inc are available to help. Call us at 239-241-5318 to request your free home comfort analysis today.