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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A bigger number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.

However, there are a lot of differing solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating often is accompanied by a more expensive cost. So, how do you know which one is right for your house?

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 skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric costs.

Does SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER rating is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 805-242-9638 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past few years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on cooling costs, as the thermostat can seamlessly regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical expenses. 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 converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient systems, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through smaller power expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your power bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cool air across your residence. Furnaces only run for around 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

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