We can help optimize your current system or help you choose a replacement that saves you money. Call us at (754) 225-6051 today!
Are you wondering why your air conditioner consumes so much power but doesn’t cool your home effectively? Old HVAC systems are typically less energy-efficient than their modern counterparts, which means that you’ll use more power to get the same result. If you want to replace your old system, knowing how the HVAC SEER rating works can help you choose the right air conditioner with maximum cooling output for a lower energy cost.
What Is an HVAC SEER Rating?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is a measure of how energy-efficient a piece of HVAC equipment is. The SEER rating is a ratio between the cooling output of a unit for an average season divided by the total energy cost. The higher the ratio, the more efficient the unit.
The rating works on the unit’s maximum efficiency, so you may not always see the exact same energy usage in your home. However, the HVAC SEER rating is still one of the best ways to find HVAC units that are efficient and environmentally friendly.
The U.S. Department of Energy introduced minimum energy efficiency standards for residential central air conditioners and heat pumps in 2015 and has recently revised these standards to reflect the growing concerns around climate change. These new standards went into effect on the 1st of January 2023 and require that all systems have a minimum SEER rating of 14 in the northern United States and a SEER rating of 15 in the southern United States.
SEER1 vs. SEER2
To keep up with changing energy standards, the Department of Energy released a new SEER calculation that uses an updated blower testing procedure. This new version, SEER2, more accurately reflects real-world conditions than the original ratio. While most current units on the market will still have a SEER rating, any new AC systems in 2023 will come with a SEER2 rating instead.
Why the HVAC SEER Rating Matters
Typically, units with high SEER ratings are more expensive than low-SEER units. This increase in cost is due to several factors, such as the research and development costs needed to make energy-saving units and the higher manufacturing expenses involved in making these units.
So how much does an HVAC SEER rating matter, and do the benefits of a highly rated unit offset the unit’s cost? Every household has a different ideal SEER rating. For example, households that use their cooling systems sparingly see fewer cost savings than households that have their air conditioners running 24/7.
However, regardless of your usage, spending a little extra on a higher-quality AC unit offers multiple benefits that, in most cases, cover the added expense.
Cost Savings
Energy-saving AC units use less power to create the same amount of cooling, meaning that switching from an old SEER 8 model to a new, efficient SEER 15 model will dramatically cut down your cooling costs.
How much you’ll save every month depends on many factors, not just your HVAC SEER rating. Ductwork, usage habits, and your home’s insulation also contribute to your air conditioner’s energy efficiency, so make sure to still follow the best practices when cooling your home.
Getting a new, efficient air conditioning unit will also reduce your need for air conditioning repair in Coral Springs. New systems typically experience less wear and tear, and with proper maintenance, your unit should last for at least a decade before requiring attention.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Many people move to lower-energy heating and cooling as a way to cut down on utility costs. The good news is that using less power reduces your carbon footprint, so switching to a higher-SEER unit is an eco-friendly choice. Many modern systems also use less environmentally-harmful refrigerants and components, and using these systems responsibly helps contribute to the fight against climate change.
Better Indoor Comfort
In Florida, summer doesn’t just mean heat; it also means humidity. High humidity can cause even pleasant days to feel stifling. Luckily many AC units also remove moisture from the system.
A more efficient system can better maintain comfortable humidity levels and temperatures, regardless of the outside weather situation.
Invest in a High-SEER HVAC System Today!
Whether you want to switch out your existing unit for one with a better HVAC SEER rating or just want more information about our recommended AC maintenance schedule, our team at Lion Air Conditioning Cooling And Heating is here to help.
Call us at (754) 225-6051 today to learn more about how high-efficiency systems offer maximum energy savings.
