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Updated: May 3, 2024
Due to a combination of hot temperatures and the rising cost of energy, many Texans and people around the country are now on a mission to get serious about their energy efficiency—and their air conditioner is often the first stop.
However, homeowners often have lots of questions and concerns about installing an energy efficient air conditioner, like: Is it worth it? Do I really save that much money? How do I know what efficiency level I need?
Fortunately, the industry has come up with a simple scoring system called “SEER” in order to identify the efficiency levels of various heating and cooling units. Once you understand how the SEER rating works, it can be an invaluable tool for maximizing the efficiency of your home or office HVAC system.
What is SEER?
SEER is an acronym for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.” Each heating and cooling system is tested and given an efficiency rating based on the amount of energy it consumes. The higher the SEER rating, the greater the efficiency; the lower the SEER rating, the more energy the system wastes.
According to federal law, all central air conditioning equipment manufactured since January 2006 must be at least SEER-13 – however, some cooling systems rate as high as SEER-18 and even SEER-23. To qualify for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR program, central air conditioners must have a SEER of at least 14.
What is the best SEER level for your home or office?
While homeowners are not required to upgrade an old air conditioner or heater that is below SEER-13, the HVAC experts at Richmond’s Air strongly encourage you to consider installing a system that is SEER-16 or higher.
By making an investment in a more efficient heating and cooling system, you will quickly see substantial energy savings that easily offset the initial cost expenditure. For instance, by upgrading from a SEER 9 to SEER-13 system, you can reduce the amount of power your air conditioner consumes by nearly a third (30%).
Especially in hot and humid climates like we have here in Houston, Texas, installing an energy efficient cooling system can save you hundreds of dollars every year and thousands over the lifespan of the unit, depending on the frequency and duration of usage. Plus, Richmond’s Air offers new equipment financing to make becoming energy efficient more affordable.
The Energy Saving Experts
Of course, lowering your energy bill and helping the environment isn’t ALL about the SEER rating. It is also important to practice energy-smart techniques and cut back on wasted cooling. HVAC experts at Richmond’s Air can help you pick out and install an energy efficient cooling system, as well as determine how you can maximize your energy savings.
Call us at (713) 732-6426 to enlist the help of an HVAC expert today. We serve Houston, Spring, Bellaire, Katy and nearby communities.
