If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Sandpoint, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy costs.
However, there are lots of varying options available for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?
At Age Heating & Cooling, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 208-578-4258. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.
How Does SEER Rating Impact My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 208-578-4258 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly evolved in the past several years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric costs, as the thermostat can intuitively manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.
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 electrical expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is a Higher SEER Ranking Optimal?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through smaller cooling costs. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your cooling bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more power.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air across your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Age Heating & Cooling are here to assist you. Give us a call at 208-578-4258 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.