Purchasing a new HVAC system can be a huge financial commitment. Thankfully, newer air conditioning units are extremely energy efficient, which saves you money and energy in the long run. But how do you know which unit is the right unit to buy? Our Home Comfort Experts are here to help you understand the difference in HVAC systems and which one is right for you.
What is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER measures air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. It is calculated by dividing the total amount of cooling it produces per season by the total amount of electricity needed. Generally speaking, the higher the SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency. Fourteen SEER and 16 SEER units are the most popular and affordable options available.
14 SEER Units
The current national minimum requirement for SEER rating is 13. Despite this, 14 SEER units are still incredibly energy efficient. Most 14 SEER systems are 20-30% more energy efficient than air conditioning systems from just 15 years ago. At an affordable price, and with plenty of energy saved, 14 SEER units are an ideal HVAC replacement for your old and outdated system.
16 SEER Units
While more expensive than their 14 SEER counterparts, 16 SEER systems offer a significant increase in energy efficiency. In fact, 16 SEER units are up to 13% more efficient, which saves you hundreds of dollars in energy costs over the years. 16 SEER units are especially useful for larger homes, as the rate of energy efficiency increases with use.
Which Unit Should You Choose?
The choice between 14 SEER units and 16 SEER units depends entirely on your heating and cooling needs. Indiana residents typically use an average of 858 cooling hours per year, which puts us right in the middle of the national average. If you have a bigger home, you will find incredible energy savings when switching to a 16 SEER unit, although at a higher initial cost. Fourteen SEER units are ideal for those with smaller to medium sized homes who are looking for an HVAC installation upgrade without breaking the bank.
Home Comfort Experts are here to help you find the perfect air conditioning system for you and your home. We will take into account your budget, heating and cooling needs, and energy saved. Contact the heating and cooling professionals at Home Comfort Experts today to learn about the ways we can help you. We serve Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan from our 12 locations. Give us a call at (574) 255-4600 to learn about our full complement of heating, cooling and plumbing services.