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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A bigger number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy costs.

However, there are lots of differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating typically involves a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?

At Air Temperature Control, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 478-202-3170. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electric bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 478-202-3170 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed before that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly evolved in the past several years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility bills, because the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electrical expenses. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your thermostat 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 best efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification signifies the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through smaller air conditioning costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your electric costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air across your residence. Furnaces only run for about 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 ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Air Temperature Control are ready to assist you. Call us at 478-202-3170 to set your free home comfort analysis now.