What is SEER Rating in HVAC Systems?

Shopping around for a brand new air conditioner means looking into plenty of things, especially the cost of having an effective AC during the hot summer months.

If you’ve looked at HVAC units any time recently, you’ve probably noticed that every heating and cooling system has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. But what are SEER ratings and how important at they when picking out air conditioners?

If you’re asking these questions, then you’ve come to the right place! This month, we’re breaking down seasonal efficiency and what a high SEER means for you.

What is SEER Rating in HVAC Systems?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating or Ratio. The SEER ratio is calculated by comparing how much power the system uses versus how much conditioned air it puts out over the entire cooling season. Higher efficiency systems have a higher SEER rating, and the rating indicates the maximum efficiency of a system.

Most central air conditioners with a good rating have energy-efficient components, like a two-stage compressor or variable-speed blower. A single-stage system will likely always have lower SEER ratings than a variable-speed system.

Your SEER is not the only factor that affect how much energy your system uses, your utility bills, and your cooling output. In addition, your energy savings will also be affected by:

• The age of the system and parts
• If the air conditioning system is properly sized
• How sealed and insulated the current ductwork system is
• Whether the air handler and compressor are seasonally serviced

What is a Good SEER Rating?

Effective, efficient systems will have higher SEER ratings. The minimum SEER for modern air conditioning units is 13, but a high SEER system will have 15 SEER or higher to meet EnergyStar standards. The best SEER for a new HVAC system is 21, but you’ll find that these cooling systems will cost more money upfront in order to save on energy costs every year.

But not everyone needs a high efficiency SEER unit for their home. In fact, most homes should look at getting a new cooling system with a SEER between 14 and 16 to combat outdoor temperatures.

What SEER Rating Should I Get?

There are minimum SEER ratings that are recommended based on the region that you live in. By buying a new HVAC unit that meets the minimum SEER rating for Tennessee (it’s 14, by the way!), you’ll have your needs met throughout the typical cooling season.

Even if you buy an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 13, you’ll still be able to enjoy cool air while saving money because your current system (if it needs replacing) will most likely be functioning with a SEER rating of 8 or 9 because it is older.

Get Lower Energy Bills with Higher SEER Units

If you’re not sure what kind of AC unit is right for your home, then it’s the Right Time to call a professional! Out team of heating and air conditioning experts are here around the clock for all of your HVAC needs, whether it’s mild weather or a blazing hot day! Give us a call to talk about the right air conditioner for your home.