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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy costs.

However, there are lots of differing models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number frequently involves a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your home?

At Bell Air Conditioning Inc, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 254-307-9572. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your energy bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. 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 not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 254-307-9572 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electric expenses, because 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, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual electrical expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp 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 best efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification means the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll normally get the difference returned throughout the years through smaller electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to distribute chilled air across your home. 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 enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Bell Air Conditioning Inc are ready to assist you. Call us at 254-307-9572 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.