What makes a seer rating

Meaning that it represents a more accurate rating for our climate because it is based on a range of outdoor temperatures from 68 degrees to SEER for central air conditioning refrigerated air systems ranges from 14 — If you have an older system you may see SEER ratings lower than As technology advancements allow air conditioners to become more efficient the higher the standards become.

Currently, the lowest SEER available for installation is Because our temperatures range from 80 — degrees during Spring and summer SEER rating offers a more accurate energy rating for how your air conditioner will be used to cool your home. Generally speaking, the higher the SEER rating, the more energy-saving and potentially cost-saving the unit. The standardized SEER rating system makes it especially easy to compare multiple units when shopping for a new AC system.

Rather than searching through the fine print or having to rely on manufacturer claims, you can simply compare the SEER ratings to see which units are most efficient.

Purchasing an air conditioning unit requires homeowners to take several factors into account. The energy-saving benefits of a higher-efficiency unit make purchasing one worthwhile for some homeowners. But for many, a medium-efficiency unit strikes a balance between an affordable upfront price and manageable operation costs. Before , air conditioners had to have a rating of at least 13 SEER. Every air conditioner receives a rating based on a standard efficiency test designed by the Department of Energy.

This assumes that your home and climate matches those in the standardized test. In Las Vegas, the average temperature can reach higher than degrees during the summer, far higher than the 82 degrees used in the standard test, and this will affect the efficiency of the air conditioner.

This calculation is based on the same conditions used for the SEER rating, however. Because Las Vegas summers are much hotter, it will require more electricity to cool the air in your home.

Despite the high price jump above the minimum 14 SEER rating, an energy efficient air conditioner can pay for itself in just a few years with substantial energy savings — especially in hot climates like Las Vegas.

Those not living in the states listed above may still have SEER 13 units installed. Some regions not included in above states still get swelteringly hot in the summer, and oftentimes homeowners can benefit from a more efficient unit. High efficiency comes at a price.

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