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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling bills.

However, there are a lot of differing solutions available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently is accompanied by a higher cost. So, how do you know which one is right for your house?

At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 203-772-8319. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate 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 expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 203-772-8319 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in before that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly evolved in the past several years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC expenses, since the thermostat can intuitively manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electricity costs. Your savings are tied to 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 highest efficiency systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation means the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll normally get the difference back over time through cheaper electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your residence while keeping your electric costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cold air across your residence. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning are available to assist you. Reach us at 203-772-8319 to set your free home comfort analysis now.