If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Warrenton, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.

However, there are lots of different options on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating typically is accompanied by a more expensive price. So, how can you find out which one is best for your house?

At Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 636-456-5041. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 636-456-5041 for help.

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

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electrical bills. Your savings are tied to 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The best efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines 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 cheaper utility costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, need about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest 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 refines comfort for your residence while keeping your cooling bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to disperse chilled air across your house. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to support you. Call us at 636-456-5041 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.