If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Menomonie and western Wisconsin, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a better SEER number frequently involves a higher cost. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your house?

At Halverson Brothers Inc, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 715-352-4052. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your home. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your loved ones’ comfort. And your utility expenses.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 715-352-4052 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly evolved in the past couple of years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Pairing your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical bills, because the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll generally get the difference returned throughout the years through reduced cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your family while keeping your air conditioning expenses low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to distribute cold air around your house. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, 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 pros at Halverson Brothers Inc are here to support you. Call us at 715-352-4052 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.