What’s a Good SEER Rating?
Looking to buy an investment property or new home? You more than likely are looking for a place with AC. Over 75% of homes in the United States has AC, but not all are created equal.
Understanding the SEER rating is one step to ensuring you find a home you are happy and comfortable in.
Want to learn everything you need to know? Keep reading below to understand the basics and what is a good rating to look for!
What Is it?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Basically, this ratio serves as a measuring stick for how efficient an AC unit is. A good analogy is miles per gallon (MPG) in your car.
While searching for your next home, it is a good idea to ask about the home’s AC SEER. This is especially true if you live in a warm area like Florida, where you will be using your AC significantly.
Ratios can range, but a good rule of thumb is to look for home ACs with a rating above a 13 or 14. These scores are the minimum for modern units.
How to Find Your SEER Rating
It luckily is pretty simple to find out what rating your current or prospective AC model has. Take a close look at the unit. Most will have a sticker, often yellow, labeled Energy Guide.
It should contain the SEER information. The rating should also be present on the manufacturer label, along with serial numbers.
What is Considered Good
As mentioned, most minimum standards are around 13 or 14. While you may immediately want to choose the highest you come across (16 SEER, 18, or even 21), it may not be the right choice for you.
Do some research before deciding. A higher SEER will often mean you will be more comfortable. This is because these units come with additional features like 2-stage compressors and blowers that can function at different speeds.
It’s also important to understand your model and what specific maintenance requirements and costs will come with it.
Cost Considerations
You may think there is no downside to choosing a unit with a higher than average SEER. You will likely be more comfortable and it will give you a lower monthly bill.
But be cautious about upgrading a current lower model. It is much more expensive to purchase and install a higher SEER model. Depending on how long you stay in a home, it is unlikely you will make up the differences in savings.
Keep Your AC Going Strong for Years to Come
Hopefully, you now see why it is important to understand what the SEER rating for an AC unit is on any home you are looking at. Knowing this information up front can save you hundreds down the road.
With proper care and attention, any unit will keep you cool and comfortable for quite some time.
Do you still have some questions? Let us know in the comments or please contact us. We would love to help!
