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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric costs.

However, there are lots of different models out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking often is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?

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

In the meantime, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners must be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 309-323-9584 for help.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past several years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical bills, since the thermostat can automatically adjust your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility expenses. 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 converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® designation. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned over time through smaller cooling costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less power than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your air conditioning bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send cool air around your home. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages 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 assist you. Reach us at 309-323-9584 to request your free home comfort analysis today.