If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Columbia, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling bills.

However, there are lots of varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating frequently is accompanied by a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?

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

In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 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 ranking is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 601-736-7362 for support.

If your air conditioner was put in in advance of that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC costs, because the thermostat can intuitively manage your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical bills. 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid throughout the years through smaller cooling expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less power 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 work at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your power expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, 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 depends on this system’s blower to distribute cold air around your home. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Watts Electric & AC are ready to assist you. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.