If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Pella, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy expenses.
However, there are many different solutions out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking typically includes a bigger cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?
At Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 641-628-3621. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your home’s comfort. And your electric costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 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 number is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 641-628-3621 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electrical costs. Your savings depend on 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference returned over time through lower utility costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less electricity than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your cooling costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more electricity.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send chilled air across your home. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating are here to assist you. Call us at 641-628-3621 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.
