Companies frequently advertise their products with an “expert” stamp of approval or high rating. This type of labeling creates a good impression and can sway consumers toward a purchase. However, consumers often aren’t familiar with how such an approval or rating is determined. In this blog, we’ll help you understand what’s a good SEER rating for an air conditioner to help you become a more well-informed consumer.
What Is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is basically a way of rating how cool an A/C unit makes the air compared to how much energy it consumes in order to do so. To figure out this ratio, an average summer season of ranging temperatures and humidity is taken into consideration, along with a set indoor temperature. Thanks to advances in modern technology, SEER ratings are typically better (higher) with newer A/C units.
What’s A Good SEER Rating For An Air Conditioner?
While not all A/C units are created equally, most newer machines use improvements in technology to be more energy efficient than older units. Most modern A/C units send to have SEER ratings that range from 14 to about 25. The current minimum efficiency requirements for residential central air conditioners, as set by the Federal Energy Management Program [FEMP], are a 14 or 14.5 SEER rating. These ratings and above are what the FEMP considers “good” for the purposes of residential energy efficiency.
Should I Replace My Air Conditioner Unit?
Generally, the SEER rating for any unit can be found on an outer panel, often on a bright yellow label. If yours is 10 or lower, you may see an annual average savings of 23% by upgrading to a unit with a SEER rating of at least 13. This can translate to hundreds of dollars in your pocket! That being said, the initial unit cost rises as the SEER rating does, so you can expect to pay more up front for a more efficient unit. In addition, energy use and money savings is very dependant on the weather and climate in your area, as well as on other factors unique to your home and your HVAC situation. It may not make sense for you personally to purchase a higher-SEER rating unit. An HVAC professional can help you determine whether the benefits outweigh the costs.
Let Our Experts Help You SEE Your Way To A Solution
Our team at Solution Based Plumbing, Heating, and A/C values our customers above all else, and we hope this helped to answer the question “what’s a good SEER rating for an air conditioner?” We want to help you find the most efficient, effective cooling unit for your home. To enlist our help in determining whether you should consider an A/C upgrade, contact us or call 215-584-2098 today.