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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.

However, there are many differing options to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking frequently involves a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your house?

At All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 256-801-4701. Our experienced 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.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your home’s comfort. And your electrical costs.

Does 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 replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 256-801-4701 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly advanced in the past few years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling expenses, as the thermostat can automatically adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat 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 big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This endorsement shows the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid throughout the years through lower electric bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, consume about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at different speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your cooling expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When installing 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 disperse cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc are here to support you. Reach us at 256-801-4701 to set your free home comfort analysis now.