If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Magnolia, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how efficient your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electrical bills.

However, there are lots of varying solutions out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number typically is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your home?

At JTech Mechanical, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 281-231-8768. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also offer you a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy costs.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER ranking is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your residence. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 281-231-8768 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed before that year, it’s presumably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly changed in the past few years, with big advancements in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on AC expenses, as the thermostat can automatically change your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

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

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

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This improves comfort for your home while keeping your air conditioning bills down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner relies on this system’s blower to distribute cool air around your home. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that mark, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at JTech Mechanical are here to assist you. Give us a call at 281-231-8768 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.