Some homeowners don’t know how to figure out the appropriate Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for their homes when buying a new HVAC system. The term is commonly used when referring to the AC or heat pump’s efficiency ratings. A SEER rating is basically the measurement of an AC’s cooling capacity or the ratio of cooling produced divided by the amount of power used. Hence, a unit with a higher rating is said to be more efficient.
A credible Air Conditioning and Heating Company will ask you a few questions in order to determine the right SEER rating estimates suitable for you and your family. According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Energy, a majority of American homes use more energy for heating and cooling than they use on any other home appliance. So, it is very important to pay attention to the SEER ratings of an air conditioner or heat pump when upgrading or replacing your HVAC system. An energy-efficient unit can save you hundreds of dollars in utility bills. The U.S. EPA requires that air conditioners manufactured and installed in residential settings after January 1, 2015, in the northern states, have a minimum SEER rating of 13. The SEER rating of your unit is found on the EnergyGuide sticker on the air conditioner.
Upgrade to Save Money
Older units are not as energy-efficient as newer versions, even when they seem to be working perfectly. You can save a lot of money annually on your energy bill if you upgrade your old unit with a newer model. For example, if you upgrade from a SEER rating of 9 to 13, you can reduce your energy consumption by about 28 percent. Therefore, depending on the cost of electricity and the amount of power consumed in one year, you can save up to $300 on average in energy costs. The Department of Energy has reliable online energy-efficiency calculators that you can easily access and calculate the amount of money you can save by investing in the right SEER ratings.
Choosing the Right SEER Ratings
Although having a unit with higher SEER ratings is an excellent idea, it is crucial to consider other individual variables that affect the actual SEER rating suitable for your specific home. Remember, the recommended SEER rating represents the potential efficiency of the HVAC system under ideal conditions. Your unit’s efficiency also depends on the right size of the air conditioner for your home, proper installation, as well as an overall evaluation of other efficiency factors such as window airflow leaks. In addition, the efficiency of your air conditioner will also be affected by the furnace which is responsible for moving the cooled air throughout your rooms.
If you are considering an upgrade or an additional HVAC system in Kennesaw and Atlanta area, contact Controlled Climate Services. Our home comfort team specializes in air conditioner installations and will be happy to evaluate your current unit and provide an estimate for a new or replacement unit. Our air conditioning systems will guarantee you a comfy and cozy home.
