If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Milledgeville and Middle Georgia, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into cold air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy expenses.

However, there are many differing models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking often includes a higher cost. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At Air Concepts of Middle Georgia, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 478-200-5689. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your home’s comfort. And your electrical costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at least 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 rating is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 478-200-5689 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has rapidly evolved in the past several years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on AC bills, since the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual air conditioning costs. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper air conditioning costs. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less power 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 operate at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your electrical costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more energy.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to distribute cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Air Concepts of Middle Georgia are ready to assist you. Give us a call at 478-200-5689 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.