The right air conditioning unit can help you stay cool and comfortable, but it can also benefit the environment. When shopping for your new AC unit, one critical consideration is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. The SEER rating indicates the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system. Learning about the SEER rating can help you choose the right air conditioner.
What Is SEER?
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio is a measurement used to rate the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system. It represents the amount of cooling provided by the system as measured in BTUs, or British Thermal Units, divided by the amount of energy consumed in watt-hours over the course of a typical cooling season. A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient system.
What Is a Good SEER Rating?
The minimum SEER rating for a residential central air conditioning system in the United States is 14 as of 2023. However, this is just the baseline requirement. To be considered energy-efficient, a system should have a SEER rating of at least 16. High-efficiency systems can boast SEER ratings of 20 or higher, which translates to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.
The Climate and SEER Ratings
When deciding on a SEER rating, you also need to consider the climate in which you live. In hot and humid climates where you will use air conditioning extensively, a higher SEER-rated system can help you save more on your energy bills over the long term. In cooler climates and areas where AC is used less often, you might find that a lower SEER-rated system is sufficient.
Introducing SEER2 Ratings
SEER2 ratings are the newer and more comprehensive benchmarks for evaluating energy efficiency in air conditioning systems. These ratings take into account not only cooling efficiency but also the system’s performance during partial-load conditions, which are more representative of real-world usage. SEER2 ratings provide a more accurate reflection of a system’s overall energy consumption.
Comphel Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. specializes in heating and cooling services for customers in Sonora and the surrounding areas. Our team also provides services for ductless air conditioning, air purifiers, and whole-house fans. Delivering quality HVAC services is always a priority. Give Comphel Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. a call to learn more about using our services.
