If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Omaha, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy bills.
However, there are many differing solutions out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating usually is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?
At Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 402-509-5940. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.
What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 402-509-5940 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on air conditioning costs, as the thermostat can automatically adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement shows the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper electric costs. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less energy than other new units, 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 operate at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your utility expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without requiring 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 due to the fact your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to disperse cool air across your residence. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to assist you. Reach us at 402-509-5940 to request your free home comfort analysis today.