If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Omaha, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy costs.
However, there are lots of differing models available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating frequently includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?
At Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 402-509-5940. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.
How Does SEER Rating Impact My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. 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 replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 402-509-5940 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC costs, because the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.
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 expenses. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement means the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through reduced electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your cooling bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need 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 distribute cold air around your house. 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 receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help. Call us at 402-509-5940 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.