If you’re needing air conditioner installation in Long Island, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it gauges how efficient your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A greater number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your energy bills.

However, there are a lot of different options out there for air conditioners. And a greater SEER ranking frequently involves a higher price. So, how do you know which one is ideal for your home?

At Airmax Long Island, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 631-737-5566. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also give you a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can affect your family’s comfort. And your energy costs.

Why Do the SEER Ratings Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the northern 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 system outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 631-737-5566 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in prior to that time, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has swiftly changed in the past couple of years, with big advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electric costs, as the thermostat can automatically regulate your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, adding a 14-SEER system could save you around 30–50% on annual cooling costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your thermostat settings.

Is a Higher SEER Rating Always Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at transforming electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll usually get the difference back over the years through lower electric expenses. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and up, use about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your cooling costs down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more consistent, since it can work for longer without needing a lot more energy.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner depends on this unit’s blower to distribute cold air across your residence. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is around that age, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Airmax Long Island are available to help. Call us at 631-737-5566 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.