If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Naples, you should also be looking at 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 cold air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling costs.
However, there are a lot of differing options on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?
At Speedy Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 239-244-3439. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical expenses.
Does My Air Conditioner’s SEER Rating Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 239-244-3439 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning costs, since the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electrical 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 using electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference returned throughout the years through lower air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, need about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your cooling expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more energy.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air around your house. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Speedy Air Conditioning are available to help. Call us at 239-244-3439 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.