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

SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it measures how capable your air conditioner is at changing electricity into cooled air. A high number means your air conditioner is more efficient, which is excellent for your cooling expenses.

However, there are lots of differing options available for air conditioners. And a greater SEER number frequently is accompanied by a bigger price tag. So, how can you find out which one is right for your house?

At Woody's Sudden Service, we provide a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can get one by contacting us at 703-278-2036. Our experienced air conditioner installers will collaborate with you to help you locate the right air conditioner for your budget. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

Right now, let’s go over SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your electric expenses.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government made new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at least 13 SEER in the north United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you don’t know when you had your air conditioner replaced or what its SEER ranking is, you can find the sticker on the system outside your home. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can reach us at 703-278-2036 for assistance.

If your air conditioner was put in before that time, it’s presumably much less efficient. Cooling technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with major advancements in energy efficiency and smart home capacity. Using your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you conserve more on cooling bills, as the thermostat can intuitively change your temperature settings when you’re gone.

If your existing air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, getting a 14-SEER system could save you close to 30–50% on annual air conditioning bills. Your savings are contingent upon 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 transforming electricity for cooling. The highest efficiency ones, which can go as high as 26 SEER, carry ENERGY STAR® designation. This certification signifies the air conditioner meets EPA requirements for energy savings and environmental conservation.

While ENERGY STAR air conditioners are often more expensive, you’ll normally get the difference repaid over the years through reduced air conditioning bills. These air conditioners, which are generally rated 16 SEER and higher, use about 8% less power than other new models, according to ENERGY STAR.

One of the largest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed technology. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This improves comfort for your family while keeping your electric expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more balanced, since it can operate for longer without consuming a lot more electricity.

When getting a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to ensure that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is because your air conditioner uses this system’s blower to send cool air throughout your home. Furnaces only work for about 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we advise getting furnace installation at the same time so you can get all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Woody's Sudden Service are ready to support you. Call us at 703-278-2036 to set your free home comfort analysis now.