If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Omaha, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy costs.
However, there are many different models available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number often includes a higher price. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?
At Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 402-509-5940. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 402-509-5940 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly advanced in the past few years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly change 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 utility expenses. Your savings are tied 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid throughout the years through lower electrical bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, consume 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 run at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your electrical expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more energy.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to send cool air around your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning are here to support you. Call us at 402-509-5940 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.