Learn what to look for in a SEER rating and how a higher rating will affect your costs and degree of comfort level.
Because a good SEER rating relies on what you’re seeking in a heating and cooling system, it’s difficult to give a rapid answer. If you are looking for air conditioner replacement services, the team at Marten’s Heating & Cooling can help.
What Exactly Is SEER?
First, let’s go through the fundamentals. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is the ratio of an air conditioner’s cooling output divided by how much energy it consumes in Watt-Hours over a typical cooling season. A Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating is another name for it.
A SEER ratio is determined entire cooling season using a constant indoor temperature and a range of external temperatures between 60 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is how a typical season is simulated. If your SEER ratio is 21, that is the maximum efficiency; however, depending on the conditions, it may be lower.
A High SEER Rating or Ratio Has Many Benefits
Energy Efficiency Improvements
In some situations, a higher SEER number means more energy efficiency. Air conditioners must meet a minimum SEER of 13, while most modern air conditioners have a SEER ranging from 13 to 21. The ductless mini-split systems have SEER ratings ranging from 14.5 to 22. But keep in mind that this is a maximum rating. The efficiency of your system will vary depending on the size of your home and other factors. Even if your air conditioner has a high SEER rating, it is still a good idea to adopt additional energy savings during the summer season. While energy efficiency is among the most important factors to assess when shopping for the best air conditioner, it’s not the only consideration
Minimum SEER criteria are enforced by the U.S. Department of Energy, and they vary by geographical region. The Southwest and Southeast have a minimum of 15, whereas the northern states have a minimum of 14. Most older A/C systems have a SEER rating of 8 or 9, so even the lowest available SEER-rated system on the market today can save you money.
Improved Indoor Comfort
You’ll be more comfortable in the summer months if you get an air conditioner with a higher SEER, especially if you reside in a hot location like the Southeast or Southwest. The less energy used, the higher the SEER rating!
Higher SEER units frequently contain two components that contribute to improved indoor comfort.
- Compressor with two stages or variable speed
- Blower with variable speed
Single-stage air conditioners with lower SEER ratings usually only have one speed. This means they’ll turn on and off frequently during warm weather, causing uneven cooling or hot and cold places. You’ll also notice increased humidity, which makes it feel hotter than it is. To eliminate humidity from your home’s air, your ac unit must operate for a longer duration. A single-stage system’s ups and downs don’t account for this.
So, What Is The Result?
There is no such thing as a SEER number. Anything over the age of 13 is fantastic. Because if you replace an outdated 8 SEER system with a 16 SEER unit, you can drastically cut the cost of cooling your home. Remember to look into tax benefits and manufacturer’s rebates that might help you save money on a high SEER system. It also feels good to consume fewer fossil fuels, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
FAQs
What do a seer rating in a heating and cooling system mean?
The SEER is a rating that assesses the cooling capacity of an air conditioners’ efficiency and heat pump’s efficiency. It is derived by dividing the cooling output during a typical cooling season by the total electric energy intake for the same period. The high efficiency of your air conditioner is 21 SEER.
What is a good air conditioner seer rating?
The greater energy efficiency is indicated by a higher SEER rating. For air conditioners, the minimum standard SEER value is 13. A SEER value of 14.5 is required for ENERGY STAR-rated central air conditioners. It’s crucial to remember that the efficiency of your system is affected by a variety of factors, including the size of your home, current ductwork, and other factors.
What is my home’s ideal seer rating?
A good SEER rating depends on various aspects unique to each home, including location, size, and what you’re looking for in a heating and cooling system, so it’s difficult to give a rapid answer. The following factors will have an impact on the overall efficiency of your HVAC system: Higher SEER air conditioners are more expensive than lower SEER models.
Is it worth it to get a better seer rating?
A higher SEER rating means more comfort and lower monthly energy expenses, but the unit will be more expensive upfront. Multi-stage cooling is common in higher SEER units, which implies the unit will stay on more frequently rather than starting and stopping.
If you live in a mild area with little humidity, a lower SEER unit may be a better option because it will save you money on installation. If you choose a lower SEER unit, make sure to check your region’s minimum SEER requirements. Your HVAC professional should be able to make a recommendation for a unit that fits those specifications.