There are many factors to consider when shopping for a new A/C unit. Choosing the right unit for your home relies on many factors. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t understand the importance of choosing the right SEER rating for their homes. Here’s what you need to know about SEER ratings in order to choose the most efficient air conditioning system for your home.
What is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The rating is created by calculating the annual cooling output during the cooling season divided by the total electric energy input. An air conditioner unit with a higher SEER rating typically uses less electricity to set your home at a comfortable temperature. When a unit uses less electricity, it will reduce your energy and gas bill.
What is a Good SEER Rating?
The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners is 13. Most modern air conditioners have a SEER rating that ranges from 13 to 21. Although a higher SEER rating does typically equate to better efficiency, it does not mean you need to choose a unit with the highest rating.
A 20 SEER rated unit could be too large to efficiently cool your house will likely underperform when compared to an appropriately-sized unit. A SEER rating indicates your unit’s maximum potential. Your unit will not always run at this rating, so it’s important to be aware of the unit’s average SEER performance to properly determine the unit’s efficiency. You can typically find a sticker on the side of your condenser indicating the average SEER performance ratings. Reach out to A/C Designs if you’re unsure of where your sticker is located, it could be missing or damaged.
How Do I Choose a SEER Rating?
On average, a good rating for residential air conditioners ranges from 14 to 16 SEER. In order to choose the right rating, you will need to consider various factors. Take into consideration your budget, the size of your home, and how often you run the A/C. A/C Designs’ NATE-certified HVAC technicians can help you determine the most appropriate SEER rating for your home.
A SEER rating is just one of the many factors to consider when shopping for a new HVAC unit. Finding the perfect unit to fit your comfort and budget is made simple when you book with A/C Designs. Schedule an appointment today to begin discussing your new unit installation in Jacksonville, FL.