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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In a nutshell, it looks at how productive your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric bills.

However, there are many different models out there for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently includes a higher price. So, how do you know which one is right for your home?

At Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 515-207-6569. Our experienced air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northernmost United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your residence. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 515-207-6569 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly evolved in the past couple of years, with huge breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling expenses, as the thermostat can intuitively regulate your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your present air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual air conditioning expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference repaid over time through reduced cooling bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and better, 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 capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can work at different speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your air conditioning bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without requiring a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner uses this unit’s blower to send cold air throughout your residence. Furnaces only last for approximately 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the perks of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling professionals at Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling are available to help. Reach us at 515-207-6569 to request your free home comfort analysis today.