If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Temple/Belton , you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it measures how capable 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 expenses.

However, there are lots of differing models to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER rating often is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your home?

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

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric costs.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can check the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 254-307-9572 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with big progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on AC expenses, as 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 an estimated 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings depend on 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement means the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through cheaper utility costs. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less power than other new models, 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 work at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your family while keeping your electrical costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send chilled air around your residence. Furnaces only run for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Bell Air Conditioning Inc are here to help. Reach us at 254-307-9572 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.