What is a SEER Rating?
The Truth About SEER Ratings
When you start shopping for a new air conditioner, you will see many terms. One number that might stick out is that of the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Before you can determine what a good SEER rating is, you must first understand what it means for your home and overall energy efficiency.
SEER is a rating that determines the ratio of the cooling output of your air conditioner over the season. That number is then divided by the energy it consumes in watts per hour. A new air conditioner typically features a SEER of 13 to 14, with some units going as high as 21 to 25.
Here are some useful facts to know about SEER ratings:
- How SEER is Determined: Air conditioners are subjected to energy efficiency tests, which are overseen by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). These tests assume an average outdoor temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit and the indoor temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Higher the SEER, More Efficient the Unit: The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your unit will be. For example, a unit with a SEER of 16 is almost 60 percent more efficient than a model with a SEER of only 10.
- All States Have Minimums: To lessen the impact on the environment, the DOE determines the minimum SEER rating. Pennsylvania, for example, requires a minimum of 13 SEER for all newly installed air conditioners.
While a unit with a higher SEER does cost more, it is also one of the better investments you could make for your home. A high-SEER unit is cost effective and eventually pays for itself with less energy consumption and greater annual savings on cooling costs. If you are upgrading from a lower SEER unit, such as a 13, to a 23 SEER, you are already increasing efficiency by 50 percent.
If you are ready to upgrade your air conditioner to a better SEER rated unit, or you want to explore your options for energy-efficient air conditioners, contact the experts at Comfort Solutions HVAC in Easton, PA. Our team provides you with no-obligation estimates, and we can help you find a unit that is friendly for your budget and the environment.
Request your estimate for a new system or give us a call at 610-438-9300 to schedule a consultation.
