SEER Rating: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?
As spring approaches, it is a great time to think about your home’s overall efficiency and comfort. You may even be In the market for a new air conditioning system. If you are, you’ve surely heard or at least seen the term SEER rating.
Does the air conditioner come on too often? Does it seem like you are spending more money than usual on energy bills? The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of your AC system may be the answer. Learn more about what constitutes a good SEER and why it’s so important when looking for a new AC system for your home.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it’s a rating system devised by the Department of Energy to measure the efficiency of air conditioners, heat pumps, and other AC systems.
But does SEER rating matter? The answer is yes! A higher SEER rating often translates to more efficient operation, lower utility bills, and improved comfort levels inside a building. Your unit won’t retain its SEER rating forever, as wear and tear will eventually make it less efficient once it approaches the end of its lifetime. However, it’s still crucial to purchase an air conditioner with a high SEER so you can reap savings for as long as possible.
What Is a Good SEER Rating?
Generally speaking, the minimum rating for today’s systems is 14 SEER, although some climates may have different requirements. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency requires all residential and commercial air conditioning units sold in the U.S. to have a minimum SEER rating of 13 for cooling-only systems or 14 for heat pumps. However, some high-efficiency models may feature variable speed compressors that allow their SEER ratings to reach as high as 25.
Depending on where you live, specific energy incentives may be available if you install a higher-rated system than required in your area. Although installing a high-efficiency system is more expensive, the money you’ll save in energy costs may pay for itself over time.
At a minimum, any split system should have a 14 SEER rating. A good SEER rating for commercial systems is 16 or higher. If you want to upgrade your existing system, most experts recommend looking for one with an even higher SEER rating, as this will usually mean better performance and lower utility bills over the long run.
Efficiency Levels
- Baseline Efficiency: 13-16 SEER
- Mid Efficiency: 16-18 SEER
- High Efficiency: 20+ SEER
Ultimately, choosing the best air conditioner for your home depends on your needs and budget. If you want maximum efficiency, then opting for a higher-rated system may be worth the extra upfront cost. On the other hand, selecting a lower-rated system may be your best option if you’re on a tight budget. It is essential to consider all of these factors when making an informed decision about what SEER rating is suitable for you and your home.
Although high-efficiency systems come with a higher installation cost, they can be more economical overall due to their energy savings over time. In addition to reduced monthly energy costs, there may also be rebates or other incentives available when choosing a system with a high SEER rating. Many local AC companies may offer financing options that can help spread the purchase cost over time.
It can be helpful to speak with one of our experienced AC contractors, who can provide further advice on which rating system would work best in your particular situation. Researching and comparing different systems can help ensure that you make the most cost-effective decision possible.
At Dilling, we offer Rheem, Ruud, and American Standard AC financing that can help your family get the best offer on your AC installation. Ultimately, understanding why SEER ratings matter and how they affect energy efficiency will help you choose the best system for your needs while reducing monthly costs in the long run.
Trust in Dilling
Understanding why and how SEER rating matters is essential in deciding which air conditioning unit is suitable for your home. By doing your research and considering both initial costs and energy savings potential, you can ensure that you make the most informed decision possible for your home. With this knowledge, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to select an efficient and cost-effective system for your needs.
At Dilling, we believe that higher SEER ratings matter and can save you money over time. That is why we are one of the leading AC and furnace installation companies in the tri-state area and can help you with any HVAC problems.
Call us today to speak with one of our licensed technicians and learn how a good SEER rating can save your family money!