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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cooled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy costs.

However, there are lots of different solutions out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically involves a more expensive price. So, how can you determine which one is best for your residence?

At Miller Climate Control LLC, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 512-937-2001. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric costs.

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 north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 512-937-2001 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past couple of years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning costs, since the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting 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 thermostat 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 most efficient models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through lower cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less electricity 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 cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your air conditioning expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to disperse cold air around your residence. Furnaces only last for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Miller Climate Control LLC are ready to support you. Call us at 512-937-2001 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.