If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Winnipeg, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy costs.
However, there are a lot of varying models on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking frequently is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your house?
At Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 204-272-8128. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.
Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy bills.
Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?
In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost 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 rating is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 204-272-8128 for support.
If your air conditioner was replaced before that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly advanced in the past few years, with huge advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric bills, since the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.
If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual utility expenses. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.
Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?
An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The best efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.
While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back over the years through lower electrical expenses. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and higher, 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 capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your electric expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more energy.
When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to disperse cool air across your residence. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.
When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to assist you. Reach us at 204-272-8128 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.
