If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Cedar Rapids, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A bigger number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy bills.
However, there are many differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently involves a bigger cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?
At Ilten's, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 319-208-2351. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss 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 guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER rating is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 319-208-2351 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility bills, since the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electricity expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification signifies the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through reduced utility bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your energy bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without consuming a lot more energy.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to disperse chilled air across your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Ilten's are available to assist you. Call us at 319-208-2351 to book your free home comfort analysis today.