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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into chilled air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your electric expenses.

However, there are lots of varying models available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking typically involves a higher cost. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your house?

At Air-Right Energy Design, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 703-260-1148. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your utility costs.

What Does the SEER Rating Even Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER criteria. New air conditioners must be at baseline 13 SEER in the northern 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 system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 703-260-1148 for help.

If your air conditioner was replaced in advance of that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has rapidly advanced in the past couple of years, with major progress in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling expenses, because the thermostat can seamlessly adjust your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity bills. Your savings are contingent upon your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

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

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are frequently more expensive, you’ll generally get the difference returned over time through smaller power costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and better, use about 8% less energy than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your home while keeping your energy bills low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to distribute cold air around your home. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we recommend 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 pros at Air-Right Energy Design are here to support you. Give us a call at 703-260-1148 to book your free home comfort analysis now.