The Complete Guide to SEER Ratings

If you’ve ever had to shop for a new air conditioning system, you’re probably familiar with the term “SEER” rating. SEER, which is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a rating system used to measure an air conditioning system’s cooling output during a cooling season, divided by the total electric energy the system uses during the same period. If you’re looking to invest in a new air conditioning system, this no-frills guide to SEER ratings will help you choose the best system for your home.

Why Should I Care About SEER Ratings?

Right about now, you’re probably thinking, why should I care about SEER ratings? Do I really have to care about them? Put simply, yes, you do. If you invest in a new air conditioning system, the SEER rating will ultimately impact both the comfort of your home and how much money on your electricity bills this comfort will cost you. If money isn’t incentive enough, SEER ratings have a great impact on the environment too. An air conditioning system with a higher SEER rating will have significantly less impact on the environment than an air conditioning system with a lower SEER rating.

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What SEER Ratings Are There?

SEER ratings are represented with numerals, with a maximum rating of up to 75 — although when you are shopping for a new residential air conditioning system, you’ll likely see ratings under 20.

So why are there so many different SEER ratings? There are a few reasons, but ultimately, not every building requires the same amount of power to cool down or heat up. For example, a 900 square foot home has significantly different cooling and heating needs than a 10,000 square foot warehouse. Similarly, places that require a sterile environment (think hospitals or server rooms) will want an air conditioning system with a higher SEER rating than a standard home.

Which SEER Rating Is Right for My Home?

When it comes to selecting the right SEER rating for your home, the answer isn’t always simple. The federal minimum for SEER ratings is now 13, but homeowners can typically purchase up to a 25 SEER system for their home. Systems with higher SEER ratings tout higher price tags, but are ultimately more efficient in the long run.

To learn more about SEER Ratings, check out our blog: What Is a SEER Rating?

Find the Right SEER Rating for Your Home With Energy Air

Selecting the right HVAC system for your Orlando home is a big decision. If you’re not sure which SEER rating is the best option for your home and budget, give the professionals at Energy Air a call. We offer a variety of products and services and can help guide you through the AC-buying process. Contact us today to learn more.