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

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Basically, it gauges how productive your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cold air. A high number signifies your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your cooling bills.

However, there are a lot of varying options to choose from for air conditioners. And a greater SEER rating frequently is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you determine which one is ideal for your home?

At Vogts Heating & Air, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 208-621-0129. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you find 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 influence your home’s comfort. And your utility expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government created new SEER rules. New air conditioners are mandated at least 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 installed or what its SEER rating is, you can locate the sticker on the system outside your house. If you can’t see the sticker, you can reach us at 208-621-0129 for support.

If your air conditioner was installed prior to that date, it’s likely much less efficient. Air conditioning technology has rapidly advanced in the past few years, with big developments in energy efficiency and smart home compatibility. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you spend less on electric bills, because the thermostat can seamlessly manage your temperature settings when you’re away.

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

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient at using electricity for cooling. The most efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, have ENERGY STAR® endorsement. This designation means the air conditioner matches EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are typically more costly, you’ll usually get the difference returned over time through reduced utility bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and greater, use about 8% less electricity than other new systems, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the greatest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capacity. A variable-speed air conditioner can run at varying speeds. This refines comfort for your family while keeping your cooling costs low. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can run for longer without requiring a lot more energy.

When adding 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 depends on this equipment’s blower to send cold air across your house. Furnaces only work for around 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 set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Vogts Heating & Air are ready to help. Give us a call at 208-621-0129 to schedule your free home comfort analysis today.