Understanding Air Conditioner SEER Ratings

When it comes to managing your air conditioning costs, energy efficiency matters. The less energy your cooling system needs to consume to keep you cool and comfortable, the more money you’ll save.

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, known as SEER for short, is an industry-wide rating system that gives you the information you need to compare efficiencies when you’re shopping for a new air conditioner.

While there are other factors to consider, including the system’s size and range of features, knowing the SEER rating makes it easier to make an informed purchase.

What the SEER Rating Means

A SEER rating represents an air conditioner’s efficiency over the entire cooling season. It’s calculated by comparing the system’s cooling output to its energy usage.

The higher the SEER rating, the more energy and money you’ll save. The Department of Energy sets minimum efficiency standards based on the geographic region in where the cooling system will be used.

As of January 1, 2015, split-system air conditioners installed in the Southeast and Southwest must have a minimum 14 SEER. The minimum SEER rating for air conditioner installations in other regions is 13.

Lower Energy Consumption Spells Savings

Thanks to tighter energy-efficiency regulations and advancements in HVAC technology, today’s modern air conditioners are significantly more efficient than those manufactured just 10 years ago. Depending on which type of system you choose, replacing an outdated system with a new installation can lower your cooling costs by up to 40 percent.

It’s important to keep in mind, however, that air conditioners with high SEER ratings typically cost more. Your trusted HVAC professional can help you calculate the payback period and determine the most cost-effective cooling system for your unique situation.

SEER Ratings and New HVAC Installations

SEER ratings are an important factor to consider when selecting the ideal HVAC system for your home or business.

They make it easier to make apple-to-apple comparisons so you can choose a system with confidence, knowing that the system won’t send your energy bills skyrocketing. You’ll want to weigh the operating costs of various air conditioners against the features they offer as well.

Features like a variable-speed blower, which adjusts airflow automatically according your cooling needs, may add to the initial expense but will pay off in many years of sterling performance.

When you’re getting ready to invest in a new cooling system, knowing the SEER rating helps ensure you get your money’s worth.

Go green with energy and money saving HVAC units. Call the experts of Reliability Home Heating and Air at 443-399-8663 to make your Dundalk area home more efficient today.