What Is an Adequate SEER Rating for AC Systems?

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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cooled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy bills.

However, there are a lot of differing options to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a bigger price. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your home?

At Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 715-301-0256. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your energy expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 find the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 715-301-0256 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past several years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electrical expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings depend on 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned over time through reduced utility bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without consuming 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 depends on this equipment’s blower to disperse cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc are here to support you. Give us a call at 715-301-0256 to book your free home comfort analysis now.