Understanding your AC system’s SEER Rating
SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) measures air conditioning cooling efficiency, calculated by the cooling output for a typical season divided by the total electric energy consumption during the same time frame. SEER is a maximum efficiency rating, similar to a car’s highway miles per gallon compared to its city, so the higher the SEER, the higher the efficiency. Most modern central air conditioning systems have a SEER ranging from 13 to 21, for example, with ENERGY STAR qualifications starting at 14.5.
Installing a system with the highest SEER does not always make for the best performance given certain factors, including your home's existing size and duct work. This is why it's important to have a trained professional survey your home before making any decisions on how to address the HVAC in your residence.
Current federal regulations mandate a minimum of 13 SEER in our area, which is scheduled to increase to a minimum of 14 SEER on January 1, 2023.
For more information regarding this topic, and all things HVAC related, please do not hesitate to contact us.