If you’ve been exploring the market for a new reliable air conditioning system for your home, you’ve certainly come across SEER ratings and you may be wondering what the term means and how it can affect your home’s temperature management. While your trusted AC contractors in Cinnaminson can help you make the right choice, in today’s blog, we bring you the ins and outs of SEER ratings to help you better understand what it means and make an informed decision. Read on.
What is a good SEER rating for AC?
Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) indicates how efficiently the system can cool your home during the season. The higher it is, the more efficient the system.
Factors that affect SEER rating
There are several factors that can impact the SEER rating of a system and they include:
- System’s size: It’s important to properly size the system so it matches the cooling load of your space. An oversized or undersized system will run inefficiently and have a negative impact on the rating.
- Refrigerant type: Newer refrigerants are designed to improve heat transfer and reduce energy consumption, which can have a positive effect on the rating.
- System design: A system that’s well-designed and includes high-quality components will normally have a higher rating.
How the rating affects your energy bills
Systems with higher SEER ratings can help you reduce your energy bills, which can be particularly beneficial if you live in a warm climate and use your AC frequently. According to the Department of Energy, by upgrading from a 10 SEER to a 16 SEER system, you can save as much as 60%.
Tax credits
You could qualify for tax credits by installing a unit with a certain rating and reducing the cost of purchasing and installing a new system. The minimum SEER rating of your unit must be 16 for a federal tax credit and it also applies to split systems.
How to choose the right system
Here’s what’s good to keep in mind when comparing different ratings and choosing your new system:
- Energy Star. Units that are approved by Energy Star guarantee a high SEER rating, with a minimum of 14.5.
- Invest more to save later. Rather than purchasing a unit with a low rating to save money, keep in mind that the higher the rating, the more you’ll be able to save in the long run.
- Performance decreases with age. Because of the usual wear and tear, a unit becomes less efficient as it ages. For example, if you purchased a 10 SEER unit 15 years ago, it’s probably at a 7 SEER now.
- Other factors that affect energy efficiency. While SEER rating is essential in determining the efficiency of a system, there are also other factors to consider, including:
- Your ductwork
- Your home’s insulation
- How regularly you schedule professional maintenance for your system
Who are the trusted AC contractors in Cinnaminson?
Whether you’d like to upgrade your old AC system or you’re looking to set up an entirely new system at your home, you can count on the skills and expertise of our professionals at Allied Experts. We’ve gathered a team of highly qualified and dedicated experts to provide our clients with high-quality service that leaves you completely satisfied.
We apply cutting-edge technology and top-notch equipment to provide your home with a reliable system that will serve you for years to come. Whether you live near Westfield Friends School or in another nearby area, we’ll be there to listen to your needs. Call today and reap the benefits of working with a trusted team!
