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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bills.

However, there are a lot of different options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how do you know which one is right for your home?

At Goode Bros AC & Heating, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 903-284-2612. Our knowledgeable 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.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your utility bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 903-284-2612 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was installed before that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly evolved in the past few years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electrical expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility 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 better SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference back throughout the years through lower power bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your utility bills reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to disperse cold air around your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Goode Bros AC & Heating are here to assist you. Reach us at 903-284-2612 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.