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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it examines how effective your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bills.

However, there are many varying models to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your residence?

At Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 805-242-9638. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electric bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 805-242-9638 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past several years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on utility expenses, as the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual utility costs. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation shows the air conditioner matches EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll usually get the difference returned over the years through reduced air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less electricity 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 a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your utility costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send cold air around your house. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning are here to support you. Give us a call at 805-242-9638 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.