If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Cedar Rapids, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it gauges how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling expenses.
However, there are lots of different options out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently includes a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your home?
At Ilten's, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 319-208-2351. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the north 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 rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 319-208-2351 for support.
If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through lower electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your utility costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without requiring a lot more power.
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 uses this unit’s blower to distribute cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Ilten's are available to help. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.