If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Front Royal, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how productive your air conditioner is at turning electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical expenses.

However, there are lots of different models out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number usually involves a higher price. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your home?

At Dave's Diversified Services, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 540-636-3396. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your home. 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 electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated 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 rating is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 540-636-3396 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly changed in the past few years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical bills, as the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electrical bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over the years through lower electric costs. These air conditioners, which are usually rated 16 SEER and up, need about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your electric costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner relies on this equipment’s blower to send chilled air around your residence. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Dave's Diversified Services are ready to support you. Reach us at 540-636-3396 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.