What Is the Right SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?

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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric expenses.

However, there are lots of varying solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently includes a more expensive cost. So, how can you determine which one is best for your home?

At Bishop’s HVAC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 916-591-6889. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical expenses.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern 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 number is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 916-591-6889 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly 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 utility expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper electric costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less energy 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 operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your cooling costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When adding 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 send cold air across your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Bishop’s HVAC are ready to support you. Call us at 916-591-6889 to book your free home comfort analysis now.