What Is a Good SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Port St. Lucie, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.

However, there are a lot of differing models out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating usually includes a bigger price. So, how can you find out which one is best for your residence?

At Custom Air Systems Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 772-247-2283. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be 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 installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 772-247-2283 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly advanced in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference returned over the years through reduced power bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, need 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 work at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to disperse cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work 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 perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Custom Air Systems Inc are available to support you. Reach us at 772-247-2283 to book your free home comfort analysis now.