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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric bills.

However, there are many varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking usually involves a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?

At Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc., we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 918-682-8238. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. 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 impact your home’s comfort. And your energy costs.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 918-682-8238 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past few years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric costs, as the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement means the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll generally get the difference back over time through reduced electrical bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your electrical bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to distribute cold air around your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. are here to support you. Reach us at 918-682-8238 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.