Are you confused about SEER ratings? SEER — the seasonal energy efficiency ratio — is a measure of a system’s cooling efficiency and how much you will have to spend to keep your home comfortable when you’re using your air conditioner. When you’re shopping for an air conditioner, you can find the SEER rating on the unit’s yellow EnergyGuide sticker. Here’s a look at SEER ratings and what they mean.
Why do you need to understand SEER?
SEER is one important way — arguably the most important way — you can compare air conditioners. Knowing the SEER rating system can help you make an informed decision. SEER ratings are influenced by installation factors, but as a rule of thumb, efficiency and savings rise with the SEER number.
What SEER rating is right for your situation?
In 2006, the federal government mandated that all new air conditioning units had to have a minimum SEER rating of 13. High-efficiency units have SEER ratings of 14 and up. Many HVAC installers recommend a minimum SEER of 16, but some units have ratings in the 20s.
How much savings can you really gain?
Although SEER ratings are an excellent measure of an air conditioner’s efficiency, professional installation is key to actually realizing the savings promised. A poor installation that fails to take into account factors such as airflow, duct size, refrigerant charge and sizing will severely undermine efficiency and performance. Make sure your system is installed by a professional thoroughly versed in the industry-standard Manual J and Manual D sizing methods.
Looking for an air conditioner that will give you the utmost efficiency? Contact Meyer’s. We can help you find the system that’s ideal for your home, and then we can see to it that your system’s expertly installed and maintained. Since 1951, we’ve proudly served Griffith area homeowners.
