If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Lake Forest, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical costs.
However, there are many different solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently involves a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your house?
At 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc., we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 949-204-0859. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. 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 impact your home’s comfort. And your energy expenses.
How Does SEER Rating Impact My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 949-204-0859 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly evolved in the past several years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility costs, as the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.
Is It Wiser to Invest in a High SEER Rating?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll normally get the difference back over time through cheaper power expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your residence while keeping your cooling costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more energy.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. are ready to assist you. Call us at 949-204-0859 to schedule your free home comfort analysis right away.