If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Cottonwood & Prescott, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric bills.
However, there are a lot of different models to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a bigger price. So, how can you determine which one is best for your residence?
At Connolly Electric & Mechanical, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 928-251-4327. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. 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 replaced or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 928-251-4327 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC expenses, because the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings relate 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 most efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over time through smaller power costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, consume about 8% less electricity than other new units, 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 cool at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your air conditioning expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more power.
When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to disperse cool air throughout your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Connolly Electric & Mechanical are ready to assist you. Give us a call at 928-251-4327 to book your free home comfort analysis now.
