The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is the measurement used for air conditioning efficiency. In general, the higher the SEER rating, the more efficiently an AC system works. Here are some things to know about SEER and its importance for your air conditioner in Davidsonville, MD.
SEER Rating for an Air Conditioner
The SEER rating tells you how much energy an air conditioner will use over the course of a year and how much this will cost you.
The SEER for air conditioners on the market these days ranges from 13 to 25 and averages 15 to 18. The minimum SEER for Maryland, set by the U.S. Department of Energy in 2015, is 14. Efficiency requirements are set to rise again in 2023.
While shopping for a new air conditioner installation, it’s essential to consider one with a higher SEER rating since it’ll use less energy than a lower-rated unit.
Old air conditioners with a SEER of 8 or 9 use more energy, giving you more reason to replace them. When shopping for a new system, look for one with a higher rating to help you save more on your utility bills.
The Ideal SEER Rating for Your Home
The right SEER rating depends on different factors in your home, including its location and size. The SEER rating alone doesn’t always indicate an efficient system.
It’s hard to determine the efficiency of a system using only its SEER rating, considering that some older AC systems with ratings of 8 or 9 are still working. Before you buy, it’s important to ask an HVAC expert what rating you need to keep your home comfortable while saving energy.
Benefits of Having the Right SEER Rating
If you live in a warmer region, a higher SEER rating is vital for your comfort. HVAC systems with higher ratings have speed blowers and a variable-speed compressor to help the air conditioner operate for long periods.
Most systems with lower ratings have single blowers and compressors and turn off frequently. They result in higher humidity in your home and uneven cooling.
An efficient system has minimal impact on the environment. When your electricity usage in your home is lower, the amount of fossil fuel burned decreases. A correctly rated system can help you protect the environment as well as your household’s comfort.
Common Misconceptions About SEER Ratings
You can find a lot of information about the SEER ratings, and while some of it’s true, there are also myths you shouldn’t believe. SEER ratings don’t necessarily relate to the overall quality of the HVAC system. Just because the system has higher ratings doesn’t mean it’s a good unit for your home.
Some customers think systems with higher SEER ratings don’t need maintenance. However, you must maintain your system regularly to keep it working efficiently regardless of the ratings.
You don’t need to buy systems with high ratings only. Lower SEER ratings can also be suitable for your home, depending on the climate in your home area.
SEER Ratings for Heat Pumps and Ductless Mini-Split systems
Heat pumps have both SEER and heating seasonal performance factors because they both heat and cool. Efficiency for heat pumps is essential since they run during both the heating and cooling seasons.
Since heat pumps use electricity, having a less efficient system can cost you a lot of money. Ductless mini-split systems, which also both heat and cool a home, commonly have a SEER rating of 20 or higher.
Our team provides air conditioner installation and repair services for residents of Davidsonville, MD. We take pride in hiring only the most qualified service technicians in our area and guarantee your satisfaction 100%. Contact Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. for an air conditioner installation or any other HVAC services you may need.
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