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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In summary, it examines how capable your air conditioner is at transforming electricity into cold air. A greater number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your energy bills.

However, there are lots of varying solutions available for air conditioners. And a higher SEER ranking typically involves a more expensive price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your residence?

At AC Sales, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at (337) 234-2345. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your electrical bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER number is, you can locate the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can give us a call at (337) 234-2345 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that time, it’s likely much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly evolved in the past several years, with huge progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electric bills, because the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity expenses. Your savings relate to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient models, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference back throughout the years through smaller air conditioning expenses. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, consume about 8% less electricity than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can operate at different speeds. This refines comfort for your residence while keeping your utility costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to disperse cool air throughout your house. Furnaces only work for approximately 20 years, so if yours is getting old, 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 AC Sales are available to support you. Give us a call at (337) 234-2345 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.