A SEER rating is a measure of the efficiency at which your air conditioning system or heat pump operates. “SEER” is an acronym whose letters stand for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The rating is calculated by dividing the average output of a piece of cooling equipment over the course of a season by the amount of energy that the equipment consumes.
The higher its SEER rating, the more efficient a piece of equipment is. SEER ratings aren’t a constant, though. Rather, they represent the maximum amount of efficiency a unit is capable of when it’s running smoothly.
SEER Rating Ranges
In 2006, the federal government mandated that all new air conditioning equipment had to have a SEER rating of at least 13. Many states have individual requirements that are higher, though. In areas like Austin, TX, where you’ll be using your cooling system a lot during the warmer months, it makes sense to buy equipment with a higher SEER rating.
In order to get energy savings from equipment with high SEER ratings, though, it’s important to make sure your equipment is maintained regularly. Dirty or clogged filters, tubing leaks, dusty condenser coils, and other issues will interfere with the smooth functioning of even the most efficient air conditioning system.
Higher SEER Systems
Air conditioning systems with higher SEER ratings generally have variable-speed compressors and blowers. This helps to ensure that they run consistently and are always working to remove any moisture that’s circulating inside your home or place of business. In contrast, systems with lower SEER ratings may turn off during milder weather, which means air humidity gets the chance to build.
Equipment with higher SEER ratings has the potential to help you save money on your monthly utility bills. Just as important, though, higher ratings will help you to use less fuel, which means you’re leaving a smaller carbon footprint.
We’ll be happy to answer any additional questions you may have about SEER ratings and air conditioning equipment. Our team offers a variety of heating and cooling services, including furnace and AC repair, maintenance, and installation. Contact Totally Cool Heating & Air at our office in Austin today for more information.
