If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, it’s important to understand SEER ratings. These numbers indicate the energy efficiency of a given AC unit, which is a money-saving factor you should always take into account — just as you would consider gas mileage before purchasing a car. Before you put down your money and arrange for an air conditioning contractor to install a new machine, learn SEER ratings, how they’re calculated, and why they’re essential.

What Is a SEER Rating & How Is It Calculated?

SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio,” which is a measurement devised by the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. It’s calculated by taking the number of BTUs (British thermal units) an AC unit needs to cool an area and dividing it by the amount of energy used during a season. In simple terms, the SEER rating indicates the amount of energy an AC must use to keep a space cool. 

What Are the SEER Rating Requirements?

The minimum SEER rating is typically 13 or 14, depending on where in the U.S. you live. In Georgia, the minimum is 14. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient — but expensive — the system is. To determine the right SEER number for your space, consider your budget, the size of the unit, the climate in your area, and how often you use your air conditioner. In a warm climate where you’ll likely use the air conditioner regularly, a higher SEER rating will save you money in the long run despite the higher upfront cost.

What’s the Benefit of a High SEER Rating? 

A higher SEER rating means lower utility bills and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, some states in the U.S., including Georgia, offer tax rebates and other discounts to people who use energy-efficient appliances. Ask your air conditioning contractor if your system will help you qualify for any of these benefits.

If you’re looking for a new HVAC unit, turn to the air conditioning contractors at Kendall’s Heating & Air to help you find a unit with the right SEER rating for your space. For more than four decades, they’ve helped Hiawassee, GA, customers stay comfortable in their homes and businesses. They offer models from the top brands in the HVAC industry, including Carrier®, Goodman®, and Mitsubishi Electric®. Check out their website for a full list of services, and call (706) 896-0830 to request a free estimate from an air conditioning contractor.