If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Houston, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical bills.
However, there are lots of different options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating typically includes a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?
At Air Current AC & Heat, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 713-322-4318. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. 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 not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 713-322-4318 for support.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly changed in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement shows the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back over time through smaller electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your residence while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.
When getting 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 relies on this system’s blower to send chilled air throughout your house. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Air Current AC & Heat are ready to assist you. Call us at 713-322-4318 to request your free home comfort analysis now.