What Is the Right SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Des Moines, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.

However, there are a lot of varying options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating typically is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 515-278-2900. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know 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 residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 515-278-2900 for help.

If your air conditioner was put in before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly evolved in the past couple of years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on cooling costs, since the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual air conditioning costs. 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 better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The best efficient ones, which can go as great 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 pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid throughout the years through cheaper utility costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, need 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your house while keeping your electrical expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to send cool air around your residence. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling are here to support you. Call us at 515-278-2900 to request your free home comfort analysis now.