If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Auburn, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling costs.
However, there are a lot of different solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically involves a bigger price. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?
At Forster Heating, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 530-885-8081. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric costs.
How Does SEER Rating Affect My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 530-885-8081 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning costs. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is a Higher SEER Ranking Optimal?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through cheaper power costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less energy than other new units, 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 run at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your energy costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse chilled air across your house. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Forster Heating are available to assist you. Call us at 530-885-8081 to request your free home comfort analysis today.