What Is the Right SEER Rating for AC Systems?

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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy costs.

However, there are a lot of different options available for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically is accompanied by a higher price. So, how do you know which one is right for your house?

At Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 740-474-5940. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your energy expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 740-474-5940 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly evolved in the past few years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning expenses, because the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

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

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference back over time through smaller air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less power than other new units, 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 a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your air conditioning bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to disperse chilled air across your house. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling are here to support you. Call us at 740-474-5940 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.