What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Jefferson City, you should also be considering 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 high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of different options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking often is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is best for your residence?

At Stieferman Heating Company Inc, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 573-635-3547. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your utility costs.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER number is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 573-635-3547 for support.

If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical bills, as the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual cooling bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned throughout the years through smaller electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to distribute chilled air across your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Stieferman Heating Company Inc are ready to help. Reach us at 573-635-3547 to set your free home comfort analysis today.