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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it measures how efficient your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling costs.

However, there are many different solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating usually includes a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?

At Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 805-242-9638. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick 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 family’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 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 installed or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 805-242-9638 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past several years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting 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 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 best efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference back over the years through lower cooling expenses. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, need about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.

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 uses this unit’s blower to disperse cool air throughout your residence. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning are here to assist you. Call us at 805-242-9638 to request your free home comfort analysis now.