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. Basically, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical costs.

However, there are many varying solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking usually involves a higher cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your home?

At Aggressive Mechanical, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 732-806-5536. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your family. 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 affect your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at least 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 replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 732-806-5536 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in before that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly advanced in the past couple of years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC bills, as the thermostat can automatically regulate 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 an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll normally get the difference returned throughout the years through cheaper utility expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your air conditioning expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without consuming 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 depends on this equipment’s blower to distribute chilled air across your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Aggressive Mechanical are ready to support you. Call us at 732-806-5536 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.