If you’re thinking about air conditioner installation in Pocatello, you should also be investigating your new air conditioner’s SEER rating.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Simply put, it examines how effective your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electric bills.

However, there are many differing solutions to choose from for air conditioners. And a higher SEER number frequently is accompanied by a more expensive price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your home?

At Vogts Heating & Air, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can schedule one by contacting us at 208-621-0129. Our knowledgeable air conditioner installers will partner with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your loved ones’ comfort. And your energy costs.

What Does the SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER rules. New air conditioners are required to be at minimum 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re unsure when you had your air conditioner installed or what its SEER number is, you can look at the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t find the sticker, you can reach us at 208-621-0129 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed in advance of that year, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has quickly evolved in the past several years, with major breakthroughs in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on air conditioning bills, since the thermostat can automatically manage your temperature settings when you’re out.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual electricity costs. Your savings depend on your air conditioner size and your temp settings.

Is the highest SEER Rating the Best?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at converting electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency models, which can go as big as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® certification. This endorsement shows the air conditioner has achieved EPA rules for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically pricier, you’ll normally get the difference returned throughout the years through cheaper power costs. These air conditioners, which are typically rated 16 SEER and up, consume about 8% less power than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at a number of speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your electrical expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can go for longer without needing a lot more power.

When installing a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll want to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this equipment’s blower to send chilled air around your residence. Furnaces only run for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we recommend furnace installation at the same time so you can enjoy all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re prepared to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Vogts Heating & Air are ready to assist you. Give us a call at 208-621-0129 to schedule your free home comfort analysis now.