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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy bills.

However, there are a lot of differing models out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?

At GV Heating & Air, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 763-535-2000. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy bills.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at baseline 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 put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 763-535-2000 for support.

If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility bills, since the thermostat can automatically adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature 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 highest efficiency models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference returned throughout the years through smaller electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your cooling expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to disperse chilled air around your residence. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, 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 set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at GV Heating & Air are here to assist you. Give us a call at 763-535-2000 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.