Whether you’re building a new home or replacing your old AC, the wide variety of brands, models and more can be overwhelming. But there are few important factors to focus on that will help you narrow your AC search and find the best unit for your needs. One of these factors is the SEER rating.
What is a SEER Rating?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER rating, is a measure of how efficient an AC unit is. More specifically, the ratio of the SEER definition is that it’s an air conditioner’s cooling output over an average cooling season divided by the energy it uses in Watt-Hours. An air conditioner’s SEER rating will tell you how much energy it will use to cool your home, therefore telling you how high your energy bills will be.
What is a normal SEER rating?
When it comes to central air conditioners, the SEER rating ranges from 13 to 25, with 14 being the minimum in southern states that have hotter climates. When it comes to choosing your ideal SEER rating, anything over 13 is great, especially when compared to your old AC, which could be as low as an 8 SEER. However, the higher the rating the more efficient your AC will be. Most homeowners choose air conditioners with SEER ratings between 15 and 18.
Why SEER is Important
Cost and efficiency are two of the most important factors in determining what AC unit to get, and SEER ratings are direct indicators of both. While the SEER rating isn’t the only factor you should consider when buying a new AC, it will give you a better idea of how much money you’ll be spending on the unit in the short term and the long term.
The higher the rating, the more expensive the AC unit is upfront. This is because higher efficiency requires better technology and materials. However, a higher SEER rating also means that your AC unit will pay for itself over time in energy savings. Investing in a more expensive unit may be ideal if it’s going to significantly cut your energy costs.
What SEER rating should I choose?
It all boils down to what your specific cooling and financial needs are. There’s no ideal SEER rating across the board because having the highest efficiency AC unit possible just isn’t realistic for every homeowner. You’ll need to consider whether the new AC is an investment in your future or whether you’re planning to move eventually. You’ll also have to weigh the cost of the initial investment with your budget.
Overall, the best way to pick the perfect SEER rating for your new AC unit is to find an experienced, trustworthy HVAC company to help you through the process. Express Air Conditioning and Heating is just that.
Contact us today for more information about SEER ratings or to begin your AC installation service.
