If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Payson, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it measures how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric costs.

However, there are a lot of differing options to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER number usually involves a bigger cost. So, how can you find out which one is ideal for your home?

At North Mechanical Heating and Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 928-263-8570. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated 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 rating is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can give us a call at 928-263-8570 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on AC costs, since the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual cooling bills. 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 consuming electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as high as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation shows the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll usually get the difference back over time through reduced power costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less electricity than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your energy costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to disperse cold air across your house. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling are here to support you. Reach us at 928-263-8570 to request your free home comfort analysis now.