If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Wausau, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling costs.
However, there are many varying solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating typically includes a bigger cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your residence?
At Gilray Heating and Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 715-301-0727. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your electric costs.
Does SEER Rating Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 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 installed 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 715-301-0727 for assistance.
If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past several years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.
If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is the Higher the SEER the Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification means the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll normally get the difference back over time through lower electric bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your cooling expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more power.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to distribute chilled air throughout your house. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Gilray Heating and Cooling are available to assist you. Reach us at 715-301-0727 to request your free home comfort analysis today.