Understanding SEER Ratings and Their Impact on Energy Bills

SEER ratings can significantly affect electricity bills. You need to know about SEER ratings before you purchase a new heat pump or air conditioner. Understanding SEER ratings and their effects can help you make sound purchase decisions that will save you money. Here at Fire 'n' Ice Heating & Cooling Inc. in Downers Grove, IL, we want you to know everything there is to know about SEER ratings. We love educating our customers and helping them save!

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures the annual efficiency and energy consumption of a heat pump or air conditioner. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient your system. A higher SEER rating means your system will cool your home using less electricity.

What Is a Good SEER Rating?

The SEER rating system moved from SEER to SEER2 in 2023, providing a more accurate cooling efficiency measurement. The United States Department of Energy created specific SEER2 ratings for northern and southern states. The minimum rating for Northern states is 14, while Southern states have a minimum of 15.

• Standard: 14 to 15
• High-efficiency: 16 to 18
• Maximum efficiency: 19+

You should purchase a system with the highest SEER rating you can afford. According to the Department of Energy, a 14 SEER rating or higher can save you more than 35%. If you multiply the savings percentage over 10 to 15 years, the savings become even more exciting.

Benefits of Higher SEER Ratings

Systems with higher SEER ratings operate more efficiently, cycling on and off less frequently. Efficient operation can help reduce the wear and tear that decreases a system’s lifespan. The increased efficiency will lead to greater comfort and reduced repair expenses over the system’s lifespan. Higher SEER systems can reduce your carbon footprint, are more eco-friendly, and help protect Downers Grove’s climate.

You should also know that some utility companies provide rebates and incentives when you install high-efficiency HVAC systems. These rebates and incentives can help you offset some of the higher upfront costs of purchasing a high-efficiency system.

You do not necessarily have to buy a system with a 20+ SEER rating. These systems are highly efficient, but they also cost more. Small homes or warmer climates may not need such an efficient system.

Choosing the best SEER rating should involve considering your home size, your typical energy usage, and your long-term goals. We can help you decide which HVAC system SEER rating you need for your home.

What Other Factors Ensure Savings?

Although SEER ratings significantly impact your operational costs, they are not the only factor. The following can also influence how much energy your HVAC system uses.

Professional Installation

Even the systems with 20+ SEER ratings will not perform well if installed incorrectly. Improper installations, the wrong size, and duct leaks can all impact efficiency. Your new system needs a professional installation to protect your investment and efficiency rating.

Home Insulation and Sealing

A well-insulated home will hold cooled air more effectively. You will lose cooled air if your home has poor insulation, gaps, and leaky ductwork. Your system will work harder than necessary, decreasing its energy efficiency over time.

Maintenance and Filter Changes

Dirty, clogged filters reduce airflow and make your HVAC system work less efficiently. Neglecting filter changes can also eventually cause system damage. In addition to filter changes, you also need to schedule annual maintenance services. Our maintenance services can help keep your system operating at peak efficiency.

Smart Thermostats

Pairing your high-efficiency system with a smart thermostat increases its efficiency. You can control your system remotely and set it to come on at specific times. Smart thermostats cool your home based on habits and pre-set temperatures, helping you avoid wasted energy.

Heat Pumps and SEER Ratings

Heat pumps have SEER ratings for their cooling performance and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor ratings for their heating efficiency. Pay attention to the SEER and HSPF ratings for high efficiency throughout the year. Look for a heat pump with a SEER rating of 16 or higher for quiet and efficient performance.

How We Can Help

HVAC upgrades are a significant investment, so we are here to help you every step of the way. Professional guidance enables you to choose the best SEER rating and set up to increase your savings.

Fire 'n' Ice Heating & Cooling Inc. has roots dating back to 1977. We are a family business that hires NATE-certified technicians. Although we are a Carrier Residential Factory Authorized Dealer, we provide services for all makes and models. Financing is available on approved credit, and we offer warranty coverage.

If you need help choosing a new AC system in Downers Grove, call our professional HVAC technicians at Fire 'n' Ice Heating & Cooling Inc..