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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical expenses.

However, there are a lot of different models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number typically involves a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?

At Speedy Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 239-244-3439. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. 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 put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 239-244-3439 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning bills, since the thermostat can intuitively manage 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 bills. Your savings relate to 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 using electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation means the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through cheaper utility bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less power 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 run at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your utility expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to distribute chilled air throughout your home. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend 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 here to help. Call us at 239-244-3439 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.