If you’re like many homeowners, you probably don’t give much thought to your air conditioner until it stops working. But when you’re unexpectedly left with no choice but to install a new a/c unit, the SEER rating is an important factor you’ll need to consider when making the best choice for your home.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Air conditioner units with high SEER ratings use less electricity to get your home to a comfortable temperature, reducing your energy or gas bill.
Mathematically speaking, a unit’s SEER rating is calculated by dividing the annual cooling output (measured in BTUs) by the total electric energy input (measured in kilowatt-hours)—in other words, dividing the amount of cool air the a/c generates by the number of kilowatts it takes to generate it.
What to Consider When Choosing a SEER Rating
The relationship between SEER ratings and efficiency doesn’t necessarily mean that you choose an a/c unit with the highest SEER rating you can find. There are other factors that may determine what SEER rating is best-suited for your home and overall HVAC system.
First, it’s important to note that a SEER rating signifies the maximum efficiency a particular unit can reach. It doesn’t mean that the unit will operate at that efficiency all of the time or even some of the time. For example, a top-of-the-line 20 SEER unit that’s far too large for the house it’s cooling is unlikely to ever perform at a higher rating than a more appropriately-sized unit, even one with a lower SEER rating. Knowing how the geography and climate of your area impact efficiency can ensure you don’t overpay for a higher SEER rating than you need.
You’ll also want to consider variables like your budget, your home size, how often your a/c is running, and how much time you spend at home. All of these factors can affect the necessary efficiency of the unit you choose.
If you’re in the market for a new a/c but aren’t sure where to begin, A/C Designs can help. Our experienced team of Comfort Advisors will work with you to determine which a/c unit is right for your home, lifestyle, and budget. We offer a wide selection of units from the industry’s top manufacturer’s including Amana, Carrier, Goodman, Trane, and more. A/C Designs also offers a lifetime replacement warranty and 10-year labor warranty on select systems, so you can experience the peace of mind knowing your equipment is protected for years of home comfort. Work with a team that is dedicated to your satisfaction by contacting A/C Designs for a free replacement estimate.