What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Libertyville, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how effective your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electrical bills.

However, there are many differing options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?

At TopTec, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 847-362-0262. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your energy bills.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 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 unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 847-362-0262 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement means the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll usually get the difference back over time through cheaper air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less electricity 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 cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.

When installing 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 unit’s blower to distribute cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at TopTec are available to assist you. Reach us at 847-362-0262 to set your free home comfort analysis right away.