If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Cedar Rapids, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical expenses.
However, there are lots of different options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a higher cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your house?
At Ilten's, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 319-208-2351. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electric expenses.
Why Do the SEER Ratings Even Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at least 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 ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 319-208-2351 for help.
If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with big progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical bills, because the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over time through smaller electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less energy than other new units, 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 operate at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your energy costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more electricity.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to send cool air around your residence. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, 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 support you. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.