What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?

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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it looks at how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric bills.

However, there are lots of differing options on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a higher price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your residence?

At Luikart Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 740-344-5497. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy costs.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made 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’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 740-344-5497 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling expenses, because the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll generally get the difference returned over time through reduced air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your power bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without consuming 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 distribute cold air around your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 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 prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Luikart Heating & Cooling are ready to help. Reach us at 740-344-5497 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.