If you’re looking to install an air conditioner in your Crofton, Maryland home, you have probably heard the term “SEER rating” thrown around without really understanding what it means. A SEER rating, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a measure of a cooling system’s energy efficiency over a certain period. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit and the lower your energy bill will be. Let’s take a closer look at what is a good SEER rating for an AC unit and why it matters so much.
How Does SEER Work?
In order to understand how SEER works and why it’s important, let’s first look at how it is calculated. A SEER rating tells you two things: how much cooling output an air conditioner can generate compared with the amount of electricity used to power it; and how efficiently it performs during the peak summer heat. All air conditioning units are assigned a number that indicates their efficiency levels. The higher the number, the better your energy savings will be over time. For example, if your current air conditioning unit has a SEER rating of 12 and you replace it with one that has a SEER rating of 15, your new unit will use less energy than its predecessor – meaning lower energy bills!
Minimum SEER Rating
The Department of Energy recently announced changes to its minimum SEER rating requirement for air conditioners being sold in the United States in 2023. These newly mandated energy efficiency ratings were designed to reduce the amount of energy used to effectively cool a space. All models sold in Maryland must meet or exceed a SEER rating of 14 to be legally sold, which is an increase over the former 13 SEER standard. The new regulation will affect all existing models currently available and any new models released after January 1, 2023.
These changes are beneficial because they’ll help to conserve energy while still providing reliable and effective cooling for customers around America. Various equipment suppliers have also indicated their support for these new regulations. With the Department of Energy’s commitment to environmental protection, these updated requirements ensure our air conditioners can continue powering our homes without sacrificing performance or reliability. An AC unit with a 14 or higher SEER rating can save you significantly on cooling costs compared to older models that have 10-13 AC SEER ratings.
What Is a Good SEER Rating?
For those conscious of their energy costs, choosing an air conditioner with a higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio rating can be beneficial. A SEER rating of 18 or above is considered to be very good and optimal for maximum efficiency and money savings. However, keep in mind that as the ratings increase so does the cost of equipment – so make sure you budget accordingly when selecting your new air conditioning system!
Not all energy savings come just from a good SEER rating; size, installation, maintenance and other factors also have an impact. When shopping around for a new air conditioner, it is wise to research units that contain highly respected certifications such as ENERGY STAR®. These certifications verify that the HVAC unit has efficiency ratings backed by independent agencies for reliable performance in cooling one’s home cost-effectively.
Get the Best SEER Rating for Your Home
When shopping for an AC unit for your Crofton home, make sure to research all available options and determine the right SEER rating for your needs. Selecting an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating can generate long-term savings on your energy bills. If you need help selecting the right model or installing your new heat pump or cooling system, contact Grove Heating & Cooling today! With years of experience behind us, we are sure to find the best solution for any home cooling needs in Maryland’s Anne Arundel County area.
