If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Rapid City, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your electrical bill.
However, there are lots of differing solutions out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your residence?
At Precision Mechanical, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 605-206-3766. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how it can impact your home’s comfort. And your electrical bills.
How Does SEER Rating Impact My Air Conditioner?
In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 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 number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 605-206-3766 for support.
If your air conditioner was put in before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past several years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on utility bills, as 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, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual air conditioning 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 converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation shows the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference returned over time through smaller electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.
One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electrical costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more electrity.
When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to distribute cool air across your house. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Precision Mechanical are here to help. Reach us at 605-206-3766 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.