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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy expenses.

However, there are many differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your residence?

At Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 734-284-1224. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric bills.

What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 734-284-1224 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on utility expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through smaller air conditioning costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, use 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your energy costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When adding 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 equipment’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning are available to assist you. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 to request your free home comfort analysis today.