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What are SEER Levels for Air Conditioners and What is a Good Rating?

What are SEER Levels for Air Conditioners and What is a Good Rating?

If you are in the market for an air conditioner, you may be wondering how to tell the good from the bad. Pay close attention to an air conditioner’s SEER rating, which often determines the quality of your purchase.

What is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency ratio.”  It describes the cooling output of an air conditioner compared to the energy it takes to produce that output. To visualize a SEER rating, imagine an adult and a child pushing kitchen chairs across the floor. The child likely has the strength to move a kitchen chair. However, it takes far more energy and effort for the child to accomplish the task than for the adult to accomplish the task. Likewise, some air conditioners utilize far more energy than others to accomplish the same task.

Why is a SEER Rating Important?

A SEER rating is important because it can make all the difference between an energy-efficient HVAC system and one that drives up your utility bill. Benefits of a good SEER rating include the following:

1. Energy Efficiency

Investing in an air conditioner with a good SEER rating prevents useless energy output. Energy waste negatively affects the environment, causing long-term problems. Fortunately, your air conditioner can be part of the solution.

2. Lower Utility Costs

Did you know that you pay for the amount of energy you use? An air conditioner with a low SEER rating may cost less to purchase, but it costs you extra money monthly. Generally speaking, it is better to pay the upfront cost for an air conditioner with a better SEER rating.

3. Longevity

Not only does a better SEER rating protect you from high energy bills, it also keeps you from paying for a replacement air conditioner prematurely. If your air conditioner has to put extra work into producing cool air, it will quit on you sooner. Then, you are back to square one.

4. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system plays a huge role in determining the quality of air within your home. A better quality air conditioner means better quality air. Better quality air means healthier skin, nose, eyes, mouth, and lungs.

What Does a Good SEER Rating Look Like?

Most air conditioners range from a SEER rating of 13 to 21. Generally speaking, the higher the SEER rating, the better. However, you also need to take a close look at factors such as brand quality, size and location of your home, ductwork, etc. If you aren’t sure how high of a SEER rating your home needs, it is best to consult a professional

If you have any further questions regarding air quality, contact Indoor Air Quality today. We serve homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area. Our highest priority is the comfort of your home.