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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it measures how productive your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical bills.

However, there are lots of different solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a better SEER number typically includes a bigger cost. So, how can you determine which one is right for your home?

At Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 432-237-0168. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s review SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your electric expenses.

What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER guidelines. New air conditioners are required to be at least 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER rating is, you can locate the sticker on the condenser outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 432-237-0168 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly evolved in the past few years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling expenses, since the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

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

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently pricier, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through reduced utility expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less electricity than other new units, 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 run at different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your home while keeping your electrical costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more energy.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to disperse cold air throughout your house. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning are available to assist you. Reach us at 432-237-0168 to set your free home comfort analysis now.