SEER – What Does It Mean?
SEER is a term that gets thrown around a lot in reference to air conditioning products. You’re probably curious about what it means. SEER is an abbreviation for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Essentially, it’s a rating system that allows you to quickly determine an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. Its rating is determined by taking the number of BTUs (the cooling speed) and dividing it by the machine’s wattage.
Heating and cooling units generally use more electricity than any other household appliance, according to the U.S. Dept. of Energy. For this reason, it’s to your advantage to check SEER ratings when picking out an HVAC unit for your home. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the product; the more efficient the product, the more you’ll save on your electric bill.
Because of a recent ruling by the EPA, all AC units manufactured 2015 and onward need to have a minimum SEER rating of 14. Older, outdated air conditioners generally have a SEER rank of 10 and under. In most cases, you should be able to identify your AC unit’s SEER rating by locating the EnergyGuide sticker on the exterior.
The Benefits of Upgrading
Units that are a decade or older are significantly less efficient than what’s currently available. They tend to require more frequent repairs than newer models. They also eat up way more electricity than an AC unit with a 14 SEER rating. By switching to a newer model, you can save on utilities, pay for fewer (if any) repairs, and lead a greener lifestyle. If you’re thinking about upgrading, contact COMPANY. We’d be happy to give you an estimate of how much electricity you’d save by upgrading.
Picking the Right SEER
While a higher SEER rating means higher efficiency, it isn’t the only factor you should be taking into account when making a purchase. An air conditioner can only reach its highest potential efficiency when it operates in the correct environment. An HVAC system that’s too big for the space it functions in can’t reach the efficiency of its SEER rating. The same is true if it’s implemented in a home with leaky ducts, poorly insulated windows, et cetera. Its rating can also be affected when operating in conjunction with your furnace.
Finding an AC unit that will operate at maximum efficiency in your home or office space requires careful inspection and calculations. Our team of certified technicians at AiRCO are prepared to find you the perfect match! Call us at today to schedule an appointment. It’s our goal to keep Austin home cool, comfortable, and operating at optimal efficiency!