What Is a Good SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?

If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Saint Louis, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your cooling bills.

However, there are many varying options out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a higher cost. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?

At Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 314-262-4541. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can look at the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 314-262-4541 for help.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility costs, since the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient systems, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation shows the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference back over time through cheaper electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your utility expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When adding a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to distribute cool air around your home. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling specialists at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating are available to help. Give us a call at 314-262-4541 to set your free home comfort analysis now.