If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Elk River, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of varying models to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking usually includes a higher price. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?

At Home Comfort Heating & Air, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 763-276-0617. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your electric bills.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 look at the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 763-276-0617 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past several years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling costs, since the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity costs. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over time through reduced electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, consume about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your power expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to distribute chilled air across your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Home Comfort Heating & Air are available to help. Call us at 763-276-0617 to set your free home comfort analysis today.