If you’re needing air conditioner installation in New Castle, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

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

However, there are lots of different models to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically is accompanied by a higher price. So, how can you determine which one is best for your residence?

At Central Heating & Plumbing, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 724-401-1843. Our skilled air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can influence your family’s comfort. And your electrical expenses.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners must be at least 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 find the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 724-401-1843 for help.

If your air conditioner was installed before that date, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on air conditioning expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust 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 close to 30–50% on annual cooling bills. Your savings are contingent upon 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 converting electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This designation shows the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid throughout the years through reduced electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less energy than other new models, 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 run at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your cooling costs reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to distribute cold air across your house. Furnaces only run for approximately 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 Central Heating & Plumbing are here to support you. Reach us at 724-401-1843 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.