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Seer Ratings: Everything You Need To Know

When it comes to AC replacement, the process can quickly become overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time buying an AC unit. From sizing the AC to choosing a brand and model, it seems like there are endless specifications and options to choose from. But there’s one specification that you should be familiar with as you begin your search for a new AC: SEER ratings.

What Does SEER Mean?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. A SEER rating is the cooling output of an AC unit over a typical cooling season (summer) divided by the energy input over the same period of time. More simply, it’s the measurement of how efficient the AC unit is. Think of SEER ratings like the miles per gallon in a car: it’s the maximum efficiency of the unit, but different conditions may cause it to be a bit lower. Like miles per gallon, SEER ratings are shown in numbers, with higher numbers equating to higher efficiency.

Why SEER Matters

When there are so many different specifications to look at, why should a SEER rating stand out to you? As the measure of your potential AC unit’s efficiency, the SEER rating can actually tell you a lot about what to expect from the unit’s performance and how much you’ll be paying for air conditioning in the future. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC unit is, which means it will require less energy to properly cool your home. For you, a higher SEER rating means lower energy bills that will save you money over time.

Of course, you pay for what you get when it comes to SEER ratings. Units with high SEER ratings are made with higher quality materials and technology, which means they’ll cost more upfront than less efficient air conditioners. However, higher efficiency pays for itself over time by lowering your energy bills. Comparing SEER ratings is the best way to weigh how big of an investment you’ll make and how big the return on your investment will be.

What’s A Good SEER Rating?

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) sets minimum standards of efficiency for air conditioners throughout the country based on SEER ratings. The minimum rating in moderate climates is 13 SEER, but states with hotter climates, like Texas, must adhere to a minimum SEER rating of 14. The maximum SEER rating technology can produce for a central AC unit is currently 26 SEER.

It’s important to remember that “good” is a relative term when it comes to efficiency. Even though 14 is the minimum SEER rating in Texas, that doesn’t make it inefficient. Old air conditioners that are being replaced now are typically 8 or 10 SEER, placing a 14 SEER unit miles ahead in terms of efficiency. As such, most homeowners choose an AC unit with a SEER rating between 14 and 16.

What SEER Rating Should I Get?

In the end, you’ll see significant energy saving no matter what SEER rating you choose. This is because even a 14 SEER will be much more efficient than your old AC. However, you’ll see more savings over time the higher the SEER rating is.

After all, a 16 SEER AC is simply more efficient than a 14 SEER. For some homeowners, there’s no limit to how much money they’re willing to spend upfront if it means lower costs in the years to come. For most people, though, choosing a new AC unit is all about balancing efficiency and budget.

Air Tech Is Here To Help

The AC installation experts at Air Tech of Humble are here to help you choose the best AC unit for your needs and budget. Our team takes the time to understand exactly what your home needs, and we always perform top-quality work to get the new unit installed. Contact us today to get started!

Why Choose Us?

We go above and beyond for you. That's a promise.

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NO LEMON GUARANTEE
If the compressor in your air conditioner fails twice in the first 5 years, we will install a complete and new condensing unit. If the heat exchanger in your furnace fails in the first 10 years, we will install a new furnace.
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$500 NO FRUSTRATION GUARANTEE
If your system breaks down during the first year and leaves you without heating or cooling, we will be there within 24 hours or we will pay you $500 for your inconvenience.
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30% UTILITY SAVINGS GUARANTEE
You will save a minimum of 30% on your heating and cooling costs or we will refund double-the-difference of your savings not realized during the first year.
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PEACE OF MIND GUARANTEE
All technicians in your home have an extensive background check performed and are randomly drug tested for your safety.

What Our Customers Are Saying

Extremely Professional

This is the 2nd time we’ve used Elite and I can honestly say they will continue to be my go to company when it comes to heating and AC repairs. They are extremely professional, quick service times, and affordable, even for this single momma! Thank you again for saving us during this chilly winter.

Amy F.

Elite Service and Great Pricing!

My technician Michael Ford was very knowledgeable and he made sure everything was working effectively. Michael was very professional and customer friendly. From the first day I started service the customer service has always been great. I would definitely recommend Elite because they are definitely going to give Elite service and great pricing!

Sharon B.

Very Honest and Thorough

Very honest and thorough. From the first contact with the scheduler to updated communication for appointments, very professional. Michael provided us different options to address system issues and charges were reasonable. 5 of 5 stars in service, highly recommend

Chris A.