If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, one of the most important things to consider is the SEER rating. But what is a SEER rating, and why is it so important? Here you can learn more about SEER ratings and get some tips on choosing a suitable AC unit for your home based on your needs and budget.
What Are SEER Ratings?
SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency ratio,” and SEER ratings are a measure of the efficiency of your air conditioner. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC unit is. To find the SEER rating of your air conditioner, look at the label on the unit. The Department of Energy has set a minimum SEER rating of 13 for all newly manufactured units, so if your unit has a SEER rating below 13, it is not as efficient as it could be. Even if your unit is newer, there are still ways to improve its efficiency. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters and coils, can help to keep your AC running at its best.
Currently, a SEER rating of 13 is the minimum allowed by law, and a SEER rating of 21 is the most efficient. To calculate the SEER rating, divide the cooling output of the air conditioner by the power input. The cooling output is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) per hour, and the power input is measured in watts. For example, an air conditioner with a cooling output of 9,000 BTUs per hour and a power input of 1,200 watts would have a SEER rating of 9,000 / 1,200 = 7.5. A higher SEER rating means lower energy bills and less environmental impact.
When choosing an air conditioner, it is essential to consider both the initial and ongoing operating costs. An air conditioner with a higher initial cost but lower operating costs may be more cost-effective in the long run than a cheaper air conditioner with higher operating costs.
Additionally, investing in a programmable thermostat can help you better control your home’s temperature, resulting in even further savings. By understanding SEER ratings and taking steps to improve the efficiency of your AC unit, you can save money on your energy bills and help to keep your home comfortable all summer long.
Making the Choice Between a Higher or Lower SEER Rating
The SEER rating of an air conditioner measures its energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner. A higher SEER rating means lower energy bills, but it also comes with a higher price tag. So, which is better, a higher or lower SEER rating?
In general, a higher SEER rating will be the better choice. However, there are some factors to consider before making a decision. First of all, how much can you afford to spend? If you can only afford a lower-priced air conditioner with a lower SEER rating, it will still be more efficient than an older model with a lower efficiency rating. Secondly, consider the climate where you live. If you live in an area with mild summers, you may not need an air conditioner with a very high SEER rating. However, a higher SEER rating will help you keep cool while saving money on your energy bill if you live in an area with hot summers.
The Importance of SEER Rating
Monetary Savings
The SEER rating on an air conditioner measures its cooling efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is. As a result, a higher SEER rating will result in lower energy bills. Over the lifetime of your air conditioner, this can add up to significant savings.
In addition to saving money on your energy bills, a more efficient air conditioner will also have a smaller environmental impact. A more efficient air conditioner will produce fewer emissions because it takes less energy to cool your home. So not only will you save money, but you’ll also be doing your part to protect the environment. When choosing an air conditioner, look for one with a high SEER rating to ensure maximum efficiency and savings.
Longer Lifespan for Your Air Conditioner
In addition to being more energy-efficient, air conditioners with higher SEER ratings tend to have longer lifespans. This is because they are built with higher quality components and materials. As a result, they are better able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. This reduced wear and tear will also result in fewer repair needs, which leads to even more cost savings. Investing in an air conditioner with a high SEER rating is an investment in your home that will pay off for years.
Can You Improve the SEER Rating of Your Air Conditioner?
While you can’t exactly increase your existing air conditioner’s SEER rating, there are several things that you can do to improve its efficiency. If you don’t already have one, you should consider investing in a programmable or smart thermostat. A programmable thermostat will allow you to better control the temperature in your home, resulting in less energy usage and lower energy bills. In fact, these devices can help you cut your cooling costs by up to 15%.
Additionally, cleaning or replacing your air filter regularly will help improve your AC unit’s efficiency. When filters get dirty, your AC has to work harder to do its job, so it uses more energy for the same amount of cooling. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, monthly energy use is 15% higher in systems running with a dirty air filter. The frequency of filter changes depends on various factors, but most homeowners should be replacing or cleaning their filters at least every 90 days.
Perhaps the most important thing that you can do to improve your AC’s efficiency is to schedule regular maintenance visits with a company like Healthy Home Heating & Cooling LLC. Our technicians will clean and lubricate internal components, check on your air filters, and perform other tasks to keep your unit operating optimally. Regular maintenance can also help improve your air quality and reduce the risk of AC breakdowns.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that it’s important to consider SEER ratings when choosing an air conditioner. A higher SEER rating means lower energy bills and a smaller environmental impact. When choosing an air conditioner, comparing the initial and ongoing operating costs is essential. An air conditioner with a higher initial cost but lower operating costs may be more cost-effective in the long run than a cheaper air conditioner with higher operating costs. Additionally, investing in a programmable thermostat can help you better control the temperature in your home, resulting in even further savings.
So, what are you waiting for? Start shopping for a new air conditioner today, and be sure to keep the SEER rating in mind to ensure maximum efficiency and savings. At Healthy Home Heating & Cooling LLC, we can help you find an efficient AC and install it in your home. We also offer AC repair and maintenance and all the services you need for your heating system in De Pere. Contact us today if you have any questions or want to set up an appointment.
