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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bills.

However, there are lots of differing options out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often includes a higher price. So, how can you find out which one is best for your house?

At Watts Electric & AC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 601-736-7362. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 601-736-7362 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with big progress in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electrical bills, because the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electricity costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement means the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference back throughout the years through reduced electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 operate at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to send chilled air throughout your house. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Watts Electric & AC are here to help. Reach us at 601-736-7362 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.