Have you ever noticed an item on a tag placed on your HVAC unit that reads “SEER Rating (cooling)” with a number off to the side? Ever wondered what it was for?
Introduction to SEER
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s a method of measuring the energy efficiency of air conditioning units and heat pumps during warmer months of the year. It’s calculated by considering the amount of cooling used divided by energy used. Thus the higher the SEER rating, the better your HVAC unit. 21 is the maximum SEER rating and 13 is the minimum standard SEER rating for efficient air conditioners. Anything between 15 and 21 is considered a good, efficient SEER rating.
Why Does It Matter?
Energy efficiency is extremely important when it comes to your HVAC system. For one thing, the more energy efficient your HVAC system is, the more money you’ll save on cooling costs in your home. An energy efficient HVAC system will cool the home comfortably without having to be cranked up, thus lowering your utility bills. Energy conservation is also important for the sake of the environment. It’s becoming more and more important to reduce our carbon footprint. If homeowners can do so while staying comfortable in their own home, so much the better.
And It Pays
It’s not just savings on your energy bills. ENERGY STAR, a national program created to rate energy efficient home appliances, often offers national tax credits to homes that make energy efficient changes throughout the year. College Station Utilities also offers cash rebates to homes who have an air conditioning units with ratings of 15 or higher SEER. Not only can you lower your own bills and have a better impact on the environment, but with these rebates you can be rewarded for energy efficient choices as well.
Where To Find Your SEER Rating
Where you can find your SEER rating depends on the unit and the manufacturer. Some units have a sheet on the front of them that lists the SEER rating. Others might include the SEER rating at the front of the model number. The SEER rating can also be found on the builder’s permit if it’s a new system or a yellow “energy guide” sticker. If you’re still unsure of where to find your SEER rating, call an HVAC contractor or the manufacturer and they’ll be able to tell you what your rating is.
Energy efficiency is crucial when it comes to your HVAC unit, and the SEER rating system is one way to ensure that you maximize your energy efficiency in your home. At Air Solutions in Bryan-College Station, we have have 50 years of combined experience with HVAC units in the area, and we’re fluent in SEER ratings. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about SEER, energy efficiency, or the right air conditioning units and heat pumps for your home. Contact us today for more information.
Comentários