What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Erie, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric expenses.

However, there are a lot of differing solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating often involves a higher cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At Patterson & Stirling, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 814-308-0416. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your utility costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 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 installed or what its SEER rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 814-308-0416 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly changed in the past several years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC costs, as the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement means the air conditioner matches EPA rules 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 lower utility bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less power than other new models, 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 refines comfort for your residence while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to send cool air around your home. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Patterson & Stirling are here to help. Reach us at 814-308-0416 to request your free home comfort analysis today.