If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Beckley and Mount Hope, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cooled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.
However, there are a lot of varying solutions out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a more expensive price. So, how do you know which one is right for your residence?
At Appalachian Heating, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 304-707-0600. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can affect your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 304-707-0600 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on AC bills, because the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electrical costs. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Rating Better?
An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation means the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned throughout the years through lower electrical bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and higher, need about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at different speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your electric expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electrity.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send chilled air around your residence. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Appalachian Heating are here to assist you. Give us a call at 304-707-0600 to book your free home comfort analysis today.