Do you know why your monthly utility bill has recently increased? Of course, the amount of energy you use each month is important, but the efficiency of your larger appliances can also have an impact on how much you have to pay. Your home’s cooling system is one of those larger appliances that use a lot of energy, and the SEER rating of your current system will tell you how efficient it is.

What Is the SEER Rating?

A SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a metric used to assess the energy efficiency of a cooling system. You can figure it out by dividing the cooling output of a system by the total energy input over the course of a season. Because the US Department of Energy has established a minimum required SEER rating of 14 for newly manufactured systems, your system most likely has a lower efficiency rating if it was manufactured before 2006. This will result in higher monthly utility bills and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Replacing an old, inefficient system with a new one can help you save money while also lowering your carbon footprint.

Discovering Your SEER Rating

Examine your cooling system for a yellow and black “energy guide” sticker, which is usually found on the side of the condenser, to determine your SEER rating. This sticker will tell you the seasonal energy efficiency ratio in large numbers if you keep it. If there isn’t a sticker, look for a piece of paper taped to the front of the air handler. Your AC contractor’s performance data is most likely listed here.

The SEER rating is sometimes included at the beginning of the model number by some manufacturers. You might notice “XC14,” followed by other numbers and dashes. In this case, the SEER rating is 14. Finally, if you know the model and the serial number of your air conditioner, you can contact the manufacturer or a local dealer to inquire about the SEER rating for that model.

Why Does SEER Rating Matter?

Why should a SEER rating stand out when there are so many other specifications? As a measure of the efficiency of your potential AC unit, the SEER rating can tell you what to expect in terms of performance and efficiency. The higher the rating, the higher the efficiency.

Of course, you get what you pay for when it comes to SEER ratings. High SEER air conditioners are built with higher quality materials and technology, so they are more expensive than less efficient models. Higher efficiency, on the other hand, pays for itself through lower energy bills. Comparing SEER ratings is the most effective way to determine how much of an investment you will make and how much return on investment you will receive.

The Best SEER Rating for You

AC installation is a major undertaking that should not be underestimated. The first step is to choose the best AC unit for your home. Finally, regardless of your SEER rating, you will save a substantial amount of energy. This is due to the fact that even a 14 SEER air conditioner will be far more efficient than your old one. However, the higher the SEER rating, the greater the long-term savings.

After all, a 16 SEER air conditioner simply outperforms a 14 SEER air conditioner in terms of efficiency. Most people choose a new air conditioner by balancing efficiency and cost. After you’ve decided on the best AC unit for your needs, the next step is to find a professional to do the installation. This is not a job for inexperienced individuals because it necessitates expertise and experience to ensure that the job is completed correctly and that your unit is properly installed.

Check references and reviews when looking for AC installation in Las Vegas, NV, to ensure you hire someone reputable and capable. After your new air conditioner is installed, you can rest assured that your home will be cool and comfortable—and that your energy bills will be lower than ever. The experts at Anytime Plumbing are here to help you choose the best AC unit for your needs and budget.

Dustin Mullins