If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Des Moines, you should also be looking at your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it looks at how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is good for your energy expenses.

However, there are lots of different solutions on the market for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number usually involves a bigger cost. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?

At Heartland Heating & Cooling, we offer a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can request one by contacting us at 515-344-3579. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you pick the right air conditioner for your family. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

In the meantime, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can influence your home’s comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER rating is, you can look at the sticker on the condenser outside your home. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 515-344-3579 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was replaced prior to that year, it’s probably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly changed in the past several years, with huge advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on electrical bills, as the thermostat can seamlessly change your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual utility bills. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as big as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification shows the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more expensive, you’ll usually get the difference repaid over the years through reduced electrical bills. These air conditioners, which are frequently rated 16 SEER and greater, need about 8% less electricity 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 different speeds. This fine-tunes comfort for your loved ones while keeping your power expenses down. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can work for longer without requiring a lot more electricity.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll need to make sure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is due to the fact your air conditioner relies on this unit’s blower to send cold air across your residence. Furnaces only last for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the advantages of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Heartland Heating & Cooling are available to assist you. Give us a call at 515-344-3579 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.