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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling costs.

However, there are many differing models to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently involves a more expensive cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?

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

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 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 put in or what its SEER rating is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 732-806-5536 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed before that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly changed in the past couple of years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling expenses, 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, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification shows the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through smaller power costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less power than other new systems, 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 varying speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Aggressive Mechanical are here to help. Reach us at 732-806-5536 to request your free home comfort analysis now.