What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Neptune City, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.

However, there are many differing solutions out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number frequently is accompanied by a more expensive cost. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?

At Aggressive Mechanical, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 732-806-5536. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 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 check the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 732-806-5536 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past couple of years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric expenses, because the thermostat can intuitively adjust 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 an estimated 30–50% on annual utility bills. 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 highest efficiency systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through lower air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and better, 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your cooling expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without consuming a lot more power.

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 uses this system’s blower to distribute chilled air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Aggressive Mechanical are available to assist you. Give us a call at 732-806-5536 to request your free home comfort analysis today.