What Is an Acceptable SEER Rating for AC Systems?

If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Santa Clarita, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy costs.

However, there are lots of varying solutions available for air conditioners. And a better SEER number often includes a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your home?

At Verona HVAC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 818-306-3387. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your home’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can check the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 818-306-3387 for support.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of 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, as 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, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll normally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper electrical costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less power than other new models, 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 operate at different speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your electrical costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more energy.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to distribute cool air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Verona HVAC are here to support you. Give us a call at 818-306-3387 to book your free home comfort analysis today.