If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Huntingburg, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling expenses.

However, there are a lot of varying options available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number often is accompanied by a more expensive price. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?

At Dearing's Service & Solutions, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 812-200-5844. Our experienced air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can affect your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 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 number is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 812-200-5844 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has quickly evolved in the past few years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on utility expenses, since the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility expenses. 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 converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation means the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference repaid throughout the years through reduced cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and better, need 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your air conditioning costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When getting 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 disperse chilled air across your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Dearing's Service & Solutions are here to support you. Reach us at 812-200-5844 to set your free home comfort analysis now.