If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Manassas, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.
However, there are many differing models out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a more expensive price. So, how do you know which one is right for your home?
At Fire & Ice HVAC, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 703-595-4157. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your energy expenses.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed 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’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 703-595-4157 for support.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly evolved in the past few years, with huge developments in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re away.
If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electrical expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The best efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement means the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through cheaper power expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, use 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your family while keeping your utility expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without consuming a lot more power.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send cold air across your home. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Fire & Ice HVAC are available to support you. Reach us at 703-595-4157 to request your free home comfort analysis now.