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

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. In short, it examines how productive your air conditioner is at converting electricity into chilled air. A greater number indicates your air conditioner is more efficient, which is great for your electrical costs.

However, there are many different solutions out there for air conditioners. And a better SEER number usually includes a bigger price tag. So, how do you know which one is best for your house?

At Tru Air Systems LLC, we give you a free, no-pressure home comfort analysis. You can book one by contacting us at 505-226-3525. Our skilled air conditioner installers will work with you to help you choose the right air conditioner for your needs. Plus, they’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate.

For the time being, let’s discuss SEER ratings and how they can impact your family’s comfort. And your electric bills.

Does SEER Rating Really Matter?

In 2016, the federal government developed new SEER criteria. New air conditioners are mandated at baseline 13 SEER in the northern United States and 14 SEER in the southeast and southwest. If you’re not sure when you had your air conditioner put in or what its SEER number is, you can check the sticker on the unit outside your house. If you can’t locate the sticker, you can get in touch with us at 505-226-3525 for support.

If your air conditioner was replaced before that date, it’s probably much less efficient. Air conditioner technology has swiftly evolved in the past few years, with major advances in energy efficiency and smart home capability. Connecting your new air conditioner with a smart thermostat could help you save even more on cooling costs, since the thermostat can seamlessly regulate your temperature settings when you’re away.

If your current air conditioner has a SEER rating between 8 and 10, installing a 14-SEER system could save you an estimated 30–50% on annual electricity expenses. Your savings are tied to your air conditioner size and your temperature settings.

Is the Higher the SEER the Better?

An air conditioner with a greater SEER rating will be more efficient at consuming electricity for cooling. The best efficient ones, which can go as great as 26 SEER, include ENERGY STAR® certification. This designation signifies the air conditioner has achieved EPA guidelines for energy savings and environmental conservation.

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

One of the biggest differences between a 14 SEER and 16 SEER is variable-speed capability. A variable-speed air conditioner can cool at different speeds. This refines comfort for your loved ones while keeping your utility expenses reduced. It can also keep temperatures and humidity more even, since it can work for longer without consuming a lot more power.

When buying a variable-speed air conditioner, you’ll have to check that your furnace or air handler is compatible. This is since your air conditioner depends on this equipment’s blower to send cold air across your residence. Furnaces only work for around 20 years, so if yours is getting old, we suggest getting furnace installation at the same time so you can receive all the benefits of your variable-speed air conditioner.

When you’re set to replace your air conditioner, the cooling pros at Tru Air Systems LLC are available to help. Reach us at 505-226-3525 to request your free home comfort analysis right away.