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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A bigger number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling expenses.

However, there are many varying options available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically involves a more expensive cost. So, how can you find out which one is best for your home?

At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 203-772-8319. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 203-772-8319 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past couple of years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility expenses, because the thermostat can automatically adjust your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through lower power expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, consume about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your house while keeping your utility expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning are here to assist you. Call us at 203-772-8319 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.