If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Cape Coral, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electric expenses.
However, there are many differing options on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER number usually involves a bigger cost. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?
At Comfort Zone, LLC, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 239-214-0411. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the north 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 ranking is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 239-214-0411 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past few years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electrical costs, as the thermostat can automatically adjust 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 electricity bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement means the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over the years through cheaper power bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electrical bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.
When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to disperse chilled air across your home. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Comfort Zone, LLC are ready to support you. Call us at 239-214-0411 to book your free home comfort analysis now.