When it comes time to purchase a new air conditioning system for your residential or commercial space, efficiency is probably one of the most important factors. One metric to consider when trying to find a new system is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). But what exactly are SEER ratings, and how do they impact your energy bills?
At R&D Heating and Air, we know that common industry terms like this can be difficult to understand, especially if you’ve never purchased a new HVAC system for your home before. If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning system this summer and you’re having a difficult time understanding how different SEER ratings impact your home, keep reading to learn more.
What is SEER, and How is It Calculated?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rating is used to measure the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning system over a typical cooling season. SEER ratings are calculated by dividing the cooling output of a system, measured in BTUs, by the total electrical energy input, measured in watt-hours during the same period. To put it into simpler terms, SEER ratings indicate how efficiently an air conditioning unit operates under normal seasonal conditions.
Why do SEER Ratings Matter?
When you’re looking for a new air conditioning system, you will likely see a wide variety of SEER ratings. Higher SEER ratings indicate more efficient air conditioning units. This increase in energy efficiency translates directly into more energy savings for home and business owners. But how does SEER matter for your energy bills? It has several different effects on your energy bills, including:
- Lower Energy Consumption: Higher SEER-rated units often use less electricity to achieve the same level of cooling as other, lower-rated units. This reduction in energy consumption directly translates to lower utility bills, meaning less money is spent to keep your home comfortable during the warmer months.
- Environmental Impact: More efficient units reduce your overall demand for electricity. If you’re trying to decrease the carbon footprint associated with power generation, these systems are a great way to do that. Choosing a higher SEER-rated unit is the more eco-friendly option, helping you achieve a greener home.
- Long-Term Savings: You may be put off by the higher upfront cost of higher SEER-rated units. However, the energy savings over the unit’s lifespan often offset the higher initial cost. If you’re long for more significant long-term savings, investing in a higher-rated system is the way to do so.
Understanding SEER Ratings
Minimum SEER Standards
The U.S. Department of Energy is responsible for setting the minimum SEER rating standards for an air conditioning unit. In 2024, the minimum SEER rating for residential air conditioning units is 14 across most of the United States. However, some regions with hotter climates have a higher minimum requirement of 15.
SEER Ratings and Your Climate
The effectiveness of a SEER rating may vary depending on your local climate. If you experience milder summers, the difference between energy savings between units with different SEER ratings may be less noticeable. However, if you live in a much warmer climate with longer cooling seasons, investing in a higher SEER-rated unit can lead to substantial energy savings over the years.
Comparing Costs
When comparing air conditioning units, you should consider the SEER rating and the overall cost. Calculate potential energy savings using the SEER rating to determine if the higher upfront cost of a more efficient unit is justified by the long-term savings on your energy bills. If you live in a milder climate, you might find that the energy savings won’t be substantial enough to justify the upfront cost.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
There are several things you should do when trying to find the right air conditioning unit for your home. If you are in the market for a new system, consider each of the following:
- Assess Your Cooling Needs: Before you purchase a new system, determine the size and cooling requirements for your home. A trusted HVAC professional can help you calculate the appropriate capacity needed to cool your home efficiently, ensuring you get the appropriate system.
- Evaluate SEER Ratings: In many cases, you should look for the unit with the highest SEER rating. For many homes across warmer regions of the United States, a higher rating will mean more energy efficiency and potential savings over the system’s lifespan.
- Upfront Cost vs. Long-Term Savings: When it comes time to make your purchase, you might want to balance the initial investment with expected long-term savings. Sometimes, spending more initially can result in lower energy costs over time, saving you more in the long term.
- Speak to a Professional: When it comes down to choosing the appropriate system for your home, it is always in your best interest to speak to a trusted HVAC professional. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations, ensuring your home is comfortable during the hottest season of the year.
Finding the Right System for Your Home in Roy, Utah
No matter what SEER rating your air conditioning system has, it is essential that you work with a reliable HVAC company for your maintenance and repair needs. If you’re looking for a reliable team in the Roy, Utah, area, turn to our team at R&D Heating and Air. We’ve provided reliable HVAC services to homeowners across the Wasatch Front for over 20 years, meaning no HVAC troubles are too big for us to tackle.
Whether you need seasonal maintenance or you’re considering upgrading your old, worn-out system, our team is here to provide you with support throughout the process. If you are ready to install a new air conditioning unit in your home or if you have questions about the services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us today.