Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the unit by which air conditioning efficiency is measured. In the world of air conditioning, the higher the SEER, the better the efficiency, and the lower your energy costs. Higher-efficiency (SEER) systems will normally cost more to purchase than lower-efficiency systems, but cost substantially less to operate over time.
As a general rule, if you intend to remain in the property where you will install the system purchased for less than five years, 14 or 15 SEER may be your best choice from a strict return-on-investment standpoint. If you feel you will be in the property between five and ten years, 16 or 18 SEER may be your best choice.
If you intend to occupy the home where you will install the system for more than ten years, equipment efficiencies as high as 25 SEER are available and should be given careful consideration, depending on your purchasing ability and budget.
Federal mandates require a minimum efficiency of 14 SEER after January 1, 2015. Equipment efficiencies as high as 25 SEER are available in the marketplace today.
As you can see, there is a wide range of energy efficiency options available for your consideration.
Use SEER rating as a starting point but be sure to compare the features of the higher SEER systems before making a final decision.
As SEER ratings rise, so do other popular comfort features such as:
- Two-stage cooling and heating operation
- True variable speed cooling operation
- Increased humidity control
- Quieter operation
- Less temperature variation throughout your home
- Superior air filtration and more
- Mobile system connectivity to monitor, adjust, and diagnose operation.
Don’t let SEER rating be your only factor in the selection process. Be sure to review all of our SEER rating options and the additional comfort features they offer to ensure you make the best selection for your needs.
