If you’re considering upgrading your air conditioning system, you may be aware that they come with different SEER ratings. But what is a SEER Rating? We’re here to help you find out, to enable you to choose the best air conditioning system for your home and your lifestyle.
SEER Rating Definition
The “SEER rating” refers to the air conditioning system’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating. The SEER rating might also be referred to as the SEE rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency rating).
The SEER rating can be used to give you a good idea of how energy efficient an air conditioning system should be.
The SEER rating of an air conditioning system is determined using a calculation that involves dividing how much heat is removed by the air conditioning system, by watts-hours of energy used. The SEER rating can help you understand the ratio of heat removed, to energy used.
What is a Good SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner?
It can be difficult to determine what SEER rating to look for in an air conditioning system. Whether a good SEER rating is important to you may depend on the climate you live in and how often the air conditioning system will be used.
- The U.S. Department of Energy has established a minimum SEER rating of 13 or 14, depending on where in the United States you live. In Michigan, the minimum SEER rating is 13.
- A SEER rating of between 13 and 21 is common for the majority of new air conditioning systems.
- A SEER rating as low as 8 is common for older air conditioning systems.
Bear in mind that an air conditioning system will not always perform to its SEER rating. Depending on various circumstances there may be times when it uses more energy.
It might be a good idea to take a look at a SEER rating chart to get an idea of how an air conditioner’s SEER rating can impact energy savings.
What are the Benefits of a Higher SEER Rating?
There are several key benefits to choosing an air conditioning system with a higher SEER rating.
Cost Benefits
The more energy efficient your air condition system is, the less you’re likely to pay out in energy bills. Although an air conditioning system with a higher SEER rating is likely to cost more at the time of purchase, the long term cost savings are likely to make up for this initial expense. In fact, if you live in a hot climate where you use it year-round, it won’t take long to realize the cost benefits.
Environmental Benefits
A higher SEER rating means less energy is being used. Not only will this help you save money on energy bills, there are benefits in terms of reducing your impact on the environment.
Improved Comfort
An air conditioning system with a good SEER rating will probably not have to work as hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. If you live in a hot climate, keeping your home cool may be a priority that is worth the investment and long term energy cost savings.
Contact Us for AC Maintenance and Repair
Perhaps you already have the ideal air conditioning system, but it is in need of some attention to perform more efficiently. Vredevoogd Heating & Cooling can help keep your air conditioning system running efficiently, with maintenance and repair services. Contact Vredevoogd Heating & Cooling today.
Call Vredevoogd Heating & Cooling for all your plumbing, heating, & cooling needs. In the greater West Michigan, Lakeshore, and surrounding areas call: 844-482-2365
