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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling costs.

However, there are many differing models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating typically includes a higher price tag. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your house?

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

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the north 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 system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 734-284-1224 for help.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling bills, as the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re gone.

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 utility expenses. Your savings relate to 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 most efficient models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation means the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through lower utility expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your cooling costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.

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 system’s blower to distribute chilled air across your residence. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting 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 pros at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning are here to support you. Give us a call at 734-284-1224 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.