One of the great benefits of today’s air conditioners is the energy efficiency with which they operate. Not only has technology allowed for better-performing systems, but federal regulations have also raised the standard at which air conditioners need to be produced and operated. The way this standard is conveyed to consumers is through something known as a SEER number. This is an important number to understand when investing in an air conditioning installation in Lake Worth, FL. Call Envirotech Air Quality Services to learn more.
What Is a SEER Number?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. The minimum SEER allowed for both production and use of air conditioning systems changed in 2006 from 10 to 13; as such, all newly-produced air conditioners since 2006 need to meet a minimum SEER of 13. Therefore, whenever you install a new air conditioner, it meets the minimum standard of energy efficiency, and can go higher if you so choose.
SEER tells you how much energy the air conditioner will use to cool your property; the higher the SEER, the less energy is used. A higher SEER rating on an air conditioner doesn’t mean that it will cool your home faster or is a larger unit; rather, it will cool your home the same as an air conditioner with a lower SEER, but the AC with the higher SEER will use less energy to do it.
What SEER Should I Choose?
Less energy use typically means lower utility bills, but one item to factor in while considering SEER is that air conditioners with higher SEERs tend to cost more money. What you want to review with your Envirotech Air Quality Services installation expert is whether or not the monthly savings you can achieve with a higher SEER air conditioner can cover, and potentially exceed, the cost of the air conditioner at the time of purchase. Determining this requires some important calculations, so working with a professional on this calculation is strongly advised.
Do Not Choose an Air Conditioner Based on SEER Alone
It won’t matter what the SEER rating is if the air conditioner you purchase it too big or small for your home; this is why it’s important to work with an air conditioning specialist on your new installation. Items such as insulation, windows and home orientation all factor into determining the right-sized system, in addition to its energy efficiency.
Need Help Choosing an Air Conditioner? Call an Expert
Since 1987, Envirotech Air Quality Services has been conducting air conditioning installation in Lake Worth, FL. We have calculated size and energy-efficiency for multiple clients’ air conditioners, and we’d love to help you with yours. Call Envirotech Air Quality Services today and let one of our AC experts help you choose a new air conditioner that will be a great fit for your home.
