When it comes to choosing an HVAC system, there are dozens of aspects to consider. You need to think about your budget, the size of the system, the brand, extra features, and your family’s needs. One aspect that should be a priority is efficiency. The more efficient your HVAC system is, the more you can save on your energy bills over time. When discussing HVAC systems, efficiency is measured by a SEER rating. In this blog, B&L Ott will guide you in choosing the right SEER rating for your Reading area home.
What Are SEER Ratings?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is defined by the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. Every unit is given a number 1-20. The higher the number, the more efficiently your HVAC unit will run.
However, other outside factors can affect the efficiency of your system. You can think of it like a car. Just because a car can get 30 miles per gallon, doesn’t always mean it does. If you are stuck in traffic, you will get significantly less mileage from your car. Outside sources can affect your air conditioner in a similar way.
How Are SEER Ratings Calculated?
SEER ratings are determined using Btu’s (British Thermal Units) and Watt-hours (Wh). A Btu is the amount of energy required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by 1° F. A Watt-hour is a unit of energy equivalent to one watt of power expended over one hour. SEER ratings are based on the equation SEER=Btu/Wh. The climate you live in is also taken into consideration when determining which SEER rating is best for your home.
What’s a Good SEER Rating for Your Home?
One of the best ways to determine what SEER Rating is best for your home is to consult the professionals at B&L Ott. Generally, most modern air conditioners have a SEER rating between 13-20. However, depending on the size, location, and personal preferences, the best SEER rating can differ from family to family. Contact B&L Ott to have a comfort specialist measure your home and discuss your preferences so you can get the best SEER rating for your home and family.
Is Higher Better?
If a higher rating means more efficiency, one might think that a higher SEER Rating is always better. In some ways, it is, however, there are other aspects to consider. In many cases, you will find that an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating will be more expensive initially. Yet, if you do get the maximum efficiency out of the higher SEER system, it can pay itself off over time. The best way to make the right choice is to consider the factors below, then call B&L Ott to match you with the right SEER rating for your home.
Higher Energy Efficiency
In most cases, you can expect more efficiency from a system with a higher SEER rating. However, outside factors such as temperature extremity, humidity, sun exposure, thermostat settings, and mechanical problems can affect the overall efficiency of your system. When you look at the SEER Rating, remember that it is the maximum effectiveness of the unit, not necessarily guaranteed efficiency.
A higher SEER rating can help you keep your utility bills low. However, it is important to keep the factors above in mind. To best determine if a higher SEER rating would be effective for your Berks County home, contact the professionals at B&L Ott.
Greater Indoor Comfort
In addition to improved efficiency, you will also likely notice improved comfort within your home. Air conditioners with higher SEER ratings are often equipped with two components that help make this possible. This includes a two-stage/variable speed compressor and a variable-speed blower.
Single-stage air conditioners only run at one speed. They turn on and off when necessary. With a variable speed air conditioner, the system can run longer or constantly at less than 100% capacity. This provides more even cooling throughout your home while also saving energy.
How to Find Your HVAC Unit’s SEER Rating?
If you want to know what your current HVAC system’s SEER rating is, there are a couple of different options you can try. These include:
- Look at your condenser unit outside. It may have a large yellow sticker on it that tells you what the SEER rating is.
- If you can’t find it on your outdoor condenser unit, try your air handler inside. The air handler is usually located in the basement, garage, or attic.
- If you can get the manufacturer, model number, and serial number, you can also search online for the SEER rating, or call the manufacturer to ask. You can also try calling B&L Ott if you’re still having trouble figuring it out.
Once you have your air conditioner’s SEER rating, you can decide if you are satisfied with your system’s performance or if you want to look for ways to improve its efficiency.
What Happens to Your SEER Rating Over Time?
Over time, the efficiency and SEER rating of your air conditioner will decrease. This is due to factors such as age, wear and tear, dirt, and leaks. Fortunately, you can help slow this process. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can help ensure that you are getting the most out of your air conditioner. You can also catch small problems before they turn into major issues.
Consider signing up for B&L Ott’s Preventative Maintenance service. It is a simple and convenient way to keep up with your HVAC maintenance. You can learn more here: https://otthvac.com/maintenance/.
Find the Best SEER Rating for Your Home with B&L Ott
Now that you know more about SEER ratings, now is the best time to figure out which rating is the best for you. If you are looking to install a new air conditioner, our professionals can help guide you through the entire process. We can take accurate measurements of your home and get to know your needs so we can match you with the best SEER Rating and model for your home. Together we can keep your family comfortable and your home running efficiently.