Since the invention of the first air conditioning system in 1902, the air conditioning business has come a long way. Today, technological improvements and a better understanding of energy usage and comfort control have resulted in highly efficient air conditioning systems that are easily accessible and affordable to the general population. When it comes to installing new air conditioning in your home, learning about the newest air conditioning standards and technology may help you make a more informed and better decision for your needs.
What Is a SEER Rating?
The SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a metric for evaluating the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps, both of which offer cooling to homes throughout the summer. The SEER rating is determined by comparing the amount of cooling produced per hour with the amount of energy spent over the same time period. You may determine your SEER rating using a simple formula: divide the air conditioner’s cooling output (depending on the season) by the amount of electricity it consumes.
The meaning of these scores is straightforward. A high SEER rating means that an air conditioner uses less energy to operate than one with a low rating. As a result, if you want to save money on your power bills, you should opt for an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating. Most SEER ratings will fall between 13 and 26. An air conditioner must have a minimum SEER rating of 14.5 to be Energy Star certified.
Prior to 2015, all newly manufactured air conditioners and heat pumps had to meet a minimum SEER value of 13. Following earlier requirements, systems built and installed prior to January 2006 may have a SEER value of 10 or below. The majority of senior air conditioners will have a rating of 8 to 10. These, as expected, use a lot of energy to run. They may appear to be innocuous at first, but they will have an impact on your utility bills and energy use over time.
As of January 2015, all new air conditioners and heat pumps must have a minimum SEER rating of 13-14, depending on the type of system and the region where it is placed. This decrease in energy is why many experts advise you to replace it when your HVAC system becomes too old.
Tip: Go to the cooling system if you’re curious about your current SEER rating on your existing air conditioner. Look for the yellow and black sticker with the words “EnergyGuide” written.
What SEER Rating Is Best for Me?
Many considerations determine which SEER heat pump is best for your home. The size and location of your property, the HVAC company conducting the project, the cost of the unit, and many other criteria are among them. Let’s look at a few of these factors to see how important they are.
Your House’s Size and Location
Where you live might impact the effectiveness of your air conditioner. If you live in a smaller home, you may not require as much cooling as someone who lives in a larger home. A smaller SEER rating of 14 or 16 will serve for smaller houses. Homes with higher square footage may require a SEER rating of 17 to 26, depending on the size; the larger the home, the higher the SEER rating.
Another significant issue to consider is location, particularly in terms of climate. If you live in a milder environment, you might not need to use your air conditioner as frequently. A SEER rating of 13 or 14 is suitable for lower temperatures. However, if you live in a hotter area, you may need a unit with a considerably higher SEER rating. If you use your air conditioner all year, you should aim for a SEER rating of roughly 21.
The HVAC System
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to installing a new HVAC system. To decide the ideal ac unit size for your home, you must first inspect it. You run the chance of having a unit either too big or too little if you install any unit. A mismatch between the home and the HVAC unit might impair the unit’s efficiency over time, resulting in a low SEER rating.
It’s advisable to hire a competent HVAC company to handle and install the new system. They should be knowledgeable and skilled enough to comprehend the intricacies of HVAC system setup. They should also be capable of completing the task at hand.
Of Course, the Cost
You should also think about how much it will cost to run the HVAC system in the long run. It may be more convenient to get a less expensive system with a lower SEER rating to save money upfront. A less efficient air conditioning system, on the other hand, may result in more significant utility expenses. Keep in mind that the greater the SEER rating, the less energy is required to chill your home.
Is it Worth It to Have a Higher SEER Rating?
A higher SEER rating on your HVAC system will help you save money on electricity. These systems, on the other hand, have certain extra advantages.
These benefits include:
Comfort: Because the system can function better with a higher SEER rating, you and your family will be more comfortable. This is especially important if you live in a hotter climate like Brevard County, Florida.
Longer cycles: Most SEER-rated systems include variable-speed compressors and variable-speed blowers. These components, over time, ensure that your air conditioner can run for considerably more extended periods. Single compressors and blowers with lower SEER ratings turn off regularly. This start-and-stop will eventually result in inefficient cooling and even excessive humidity in the home.
Cheaper utility costs: Higher SEER ratings are more efficient, which means your utility expenses will be lower.
Beneficial environmental impact: Lowering energy consumption reduces the number of fossil fuels burned, which is better for the environment.
Customers who purchase more energy-efficient home appliances can also benefit from government incentives and rebates. By purchasing an HVAC system with a high SEER rating, you may be eligible for additional incentives.
Which SEER Rating Should You Choose?
Keep in mind a higher SEER lowers your power bill doesn’t imply you’ll save money in the long run; you still have to consider the unit’s cost! Units with a higher SEER will cost more than units with a lower SEER. For example, HVAC systems with 14-SEER and 16-SEER ratings are two of the most typical air conditioning systems. A 16 SEER HVAC system is generally more energy-efficient than a 14 SEER rating. It becomes more effective with time, provides better cooling in hotter areas, and is potentially more environmentally friendly. It’s worth noting, though, that HVAC systems with a 16 SEER rating can be more expensive to buy. As previously indicated, the higher SEER — in this example, 16 — will cost more upfront than the lower 14 SEER.
So, What Does It All Mean?
Overall, no single SEER number is superior to the others. However, if you have an outdated 8-SEER unit, upgrading it with a 16-SEER unit could save you money on cooling bills and be better for the environment.
To determine which SEER rating is ideal for you, consider your individual needs for your home and area. Remember to check for tax credits and manufacturer rebates that can help you save money on a high-SEER HVAC system.
If you still have questions regarding SEER ratings or want to invest in a new HVAC system for your house, give us a call today, and one of our Coastal Climate Expertscomfort specialists can assist you in finding an energy-saving choice that is right for you.
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When you need AC repair, you want to call on a local company with highly trained technicians and affordable. You can count on Coastal Climate Experts to provide you with quality air conditioning service, whether you need routine AC maintenance, AC installation, or emergency AC repair. We service all brands of residential and commercial heating and cooling systems.
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We understand how important it is that your home is comfortable and efficient. Call us today at Coastal Climate Experts at (321) 797-0422 to find out how we can work with you to maintain your HVAC system and ask about the rest of our HVAC services.
