If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner for your Twin Cities area home, you’ll likely be exposed to A/C SEER numbers early in the process. But don’t let your eyes glaze over at what seem like incomprehensible numbers; a basic understanding of A/C SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) numbers will help you select the best cooling system for both home comfort and energy costs.
SEER ranks A/Cs and heat pumps based on how much electricity they convert into cooling over the cooling season. SEER is important as an energy efficiency rating method because the higher the SEER rating the lower our energy bills will be over the long term. The Twin Cities don’t have the highest summer temperatures, but we certainly get high heat indexes, and you don’t want to break the bank to stay comfortable.
The potential for lower long-term operating costs makes A/C SEER numbers one of the top features to consider when shopping for a new cooling system. Modern central A/Cs and heat pumps are required to have a SEER rating of 13 or higher, and the numbers rise into the mid-20s. To qualify for the federal Energy Star mark of energy-efficient excellence, an A/C unit must have a SEER rating of 14 or higher.
An Energy Star-certified SEER rating of 16 or higher for a central A/C or heat pump may earn a $300 federal tax credit, further lowering costs. The availability of these high-efficiency A/C units, the high potential savings they’ll deliver, and the pending hottest months of the year make A/C SEER ratings an essential consideration when shopping for a new A/C. Your trusted HVAC technician can advise you on the best SEER rating for your home and budget.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning for more information about high-efficiency A/C units and other HVAC system expertise. We’ve been providing top-notch, professional service and support to the Twin Cities area since 1974.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about SEER ratings and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock