If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Muskogee, you should also be looking at 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 turning electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric bill.
However, there are many varying models out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER number frequently includes a higher cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?
At Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc., we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 918-682-8238. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how it can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 918-682-8238 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling bills, since 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, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity bills. 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over the years through reduced power bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less electricity than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your electric costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more electrity.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse cold air across your house. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. are available to help. Call us at 918-682-8238 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.