If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Monroe, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical bills.
However, there are lots of different solutions available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking often involves a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your residence?
At Lanz Furnace and Fireplace, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 608-291-3606. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your utility costs.
Does 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 don’t know when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 608-291-3606 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly advanced in the past couple of years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning costs, since the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electricity costs. Your savings depend on 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 systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification means the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines 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 electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less energy than other new models, 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 cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your electric bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more electricity.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to disperse chilled air throughout your house. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace are here to assist you. Call us at 608-291-3606 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.
