If you’re thinking over air conditioner installation in Muldrow, you should also be considering your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a higher SEER rating usually includes a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is right for your residence?

At Air Service Co., we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 918-212-8943. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your energy costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are mandated at least 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 check the sticker on the unit outside your home. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at 918-212-8943 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with major developments in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on electrical costs, as the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

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

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a better SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner matches EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more costly, you’ll usually get the difference back throughout the years through smaller utility bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less energy than other new units, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at varying speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your air conditioning bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Air Service Co. are here to help. Give us a call at 918-212-8943 to book your free home comfort analysis right away.