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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A bigger number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.

However, there are a lot of differing options to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number usually includes a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is best for your house?

At Freed Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 309-323-9584. Our skilled air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 number is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 309-323-9584 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly advanced in the past several years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling costs, 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 air conditioning expenses. Your savings are contingent upon 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned throughout the years through lower electric costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 utility expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying 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 equipment’s blower to distribute chilled air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Freed Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to help. Call us at 309-323-9584 to book your free home comfort analysis now.