If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Cape Coral, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electrical costs.
However, there are lots of different models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently includes a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your house?
At Comfort Zone, LLC, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 239-214-0411. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how it can impact your home’s comfort. And your electrical costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 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 find the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 239-214-0411 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past several years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on AC costs, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re out.
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 electrical expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is It Smarter to Invest in a High SEER Rating?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The best efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies 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 returned over time through reduced electric bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more electrity.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to distribute cold air around your residence. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Comfort Zone, LLC are here to help. Give us a call at 239-214-0411 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.