What Is the Right SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?

If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Kankakee, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it gauges how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating typically includes a more expensive price. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 815-933-8213. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 number is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 815-933-8213 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning costs, as the thermostat can intuitively adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

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 expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement shows the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through lower electric costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to disperse chilled air across your residence. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Home Furniture, Plumbing & Heating are available to help. Call us at 815-933-8213 to book your free home comfort analysis now.