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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electrical costs.

However, there are a lot of different models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number typically involves a bigger price. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your house?

At Pepper AC & Heat, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 940-202-1184. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. 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 home’s comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 940-202-1184 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility bills, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electrical costs. 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through smaller electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air around your home. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Pepper AC & Heat are available to assist you. Give us a call at 940-202-1184 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.