What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical expenses.

However, there are lots of differing solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER number often is accompanied by a higher price. So, how can you determine which one is best for your residence?

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

In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated 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 replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 763-535-2000 for support.

If your air conditioner was put in before that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past several years, with huge advancements 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 automatically adjust 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 an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation means the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through reduced power costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your energy bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When installing 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 distribute chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at GV Heating & Air are here to help. Give us a call at 763-535-2000 to set your free home comfort analysis today.