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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it gauges how capable your air conditioner is at turning electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling bills.

However, there are many different models to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating frequently is accompanied by a higher price tag. So, how can you determine which one is best for your home?

At Solar Air Inc., we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 954-320-7398. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at least 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER number is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can give us a call at 954-320-7398 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past several years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on utility expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more costly, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through reduced power costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less energy than other new systems, 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 run at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go 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 due to the fact your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to distribute cold air around your home. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Solar Air Inc. are ready to support you. Reach us at 954-320-7398 to book your free home comfort analysis now.