If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Hodgenville, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric costs.
However, there are many different options out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically involves a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?
At Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc., we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 270-358-3167. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the north 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 look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 270-358-3167 for help.
If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical expenses, because the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through smaller power costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less electricity than other new systems, 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 operate at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your house while keeping your electric costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more energy.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this system’s blower to distribute cool air around your house. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. are available to support you. Call us at 270-358-3167 to book your free home comfort analysis now.
