Why Should You Care About a SEER Rating?

why should you care about a SEER rating (1)

Installing an energy-efficient air conditioning system can be a cost saver for homeowners. Compared to old equipment from 10 to 15 years ago, today’s models are powerful and effective tools for living comfortably. Technologies have advanced to levels that allow consumers to automatically fine-tune air quality in their homes. SEER is a rating system that provides a quick way to understand the maximum efficiency capability of an AC system.

What Does SEER Mean?

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It’s a mathematical formula that identifies the ratio between cooling capacity and the energy required to operate the equipment. The number is an average for the summer season. The ratio is figured by using a steady indoor temperature and a range of outdoor temperatures. The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute has more information regarding this calculation in their document labeled AHRI Standard 210/240-2008.

What’s the Best SEER Rating?

A higher SEER number indicates the product requires less energy and less money to run. Units rated SEER 13 and 14 are usually more than adequate for most homes. Older units that are SEER 6 and lower can be inefficient and costly to operate.

Products rated SEER 15 and up may or may not be a cost-effective purchase for your property. The best SEER rating for your home will depend on many factors that your installer can help you figure. Burkholder's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. offers free estimates on new AC installations for homeowners in Emmaus.

What Else Should You Know About SEER?

You can’t improve a system’s SEER rating by replacing components in an existing compressor. Getting the cost-savings benefit is a packaged deal and not something that can be assembled by swapping out parts. The whole system must be built for energy efficiency, not just one component. Energy Star products include energy-efficient, well-priced air conditioners with high SEER ratings.

As factory-authorized Carrier installers, we also offer a wide range of related cooling and heating services. This includes installations, maintenance, repairs, performance tests, and inspections. We can also clean your ducts or do air quality testing. Call Burkholder's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to discuss maintenance and tune-up services for your current HVAC system.