Welcome to Ready & Able, formerly known as David LeRoy Plumbing! Although our name and brand have changed, we are still here to serve you and all of your plumbing, heating, cooling, and air quality needs!
As temperatures rise during the summer, having an efficient cooling system becomes essential for staying comfortable indoors. While many homeowners focus on features like thermostat settings and fan speeds, one of the most important factors influencing your air conditioner’s performance is its SEER rating.
SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, directly impacts your cooling costs and overall energy efficiency. In Pennsylvania, the minimum SEER rating for newly installed air conditioners is 14, as per the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2023 efficiency standards. But what does that mean for you as a homeowner? Understanding SEER ratings can help you make informed decisions when selecting, maintaining, or upgrading your cooling system.
This guide will break down everything you need to know about SEER ratings, their benefits, and how they affect your home’s comfort and energy costs.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and serves as a measurement of an air conditioner’s efficiency. This rating is determined by dividing the total cooling output of an AC unit over a typical cooling season by the total electricity consumed in watt-hours. Essentially, the higher the SEER rating, the more efficiently the unit converts electricity into cooling power.
For example, upgrading from a SEER 10 unit to a SEER 16 unit can reduce your cooling energy consumption by as much as 30%, depending on climate conditions and home insulation. This means not only lower energy bills but also a reduced environmental impact.
The SEER rating of an air conditioner plays a significant role in determining energy efficiency and cost savings. Many older AC units, especially those installed over a decade ago, have SEER ratings between 10 and 15. In contrast, newer models often range from SEER 16 to SEER 22 or higher, offering substantial energy savings.
A decade ago, a SEER rating of 20 was considered high-efficiency. In the early 2000s, SEER 10 was common, but today, this level of efficiency is outdated. Investing in a higher SEER unit ensures better cooling performance and cost savings in the long run.
A high-efficiency air conditioner often includes advanced comfort features such as variable-speed fans and multi-stage compressors. These technologies help maintain a consistent indoor temperature by adjusting airflow smoothly instead of cycling on and off abruptly. While many systems above SEER 20 include these features, it’s important to check if your chosen model has variable-speed technology, as SEER rating alone does not guarantee it.
Reducing energy consumption means decreasing your home’s carbon footprint. ENERGY STAR-certified AC units with higher SEER ratings operate more efficiently, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This means that by choosing a high-efficiency system, you’re not only saving money but also contributing to a greener environment.
Cooling accounts for a large portion of household energy expenses, particularly during peak summer months. A high-SEER air conditioner reduces energy consumption, resulting in lower monthly electricity bills. Units with variable-speed compressors use energy more efficiently by making gradual adjustments instead of constantly turning on and off, reducing strain on the system.
Investing in a high-efficiency air conditioning unit may qualify you for tax credits and rebates. Under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, homeowners can receive a federal tax credit of up to 30% (capped at $600) when installing an ENERGY STAR-certified air conditioner with a SEER rating of 16 or higher. Additionally, some utility companies and state programs offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems, helping to offset initial costs.
While higher SEER units come with a larger upfront cost, they provide significant savings over time by lowering energy bills. Consider calculating the payback period—the time it takes for energy savings to cover the price difference between a standard and high-efficiency unit—before making a decision.
The SEER rating is only one piece of the puzzle. Choosing the correct size AC unit for your home is equally important. An undersized unit will struggle to cool your space efficiently, leading to higher energy consumption, while an oversized unit will frequently cycle on and off, causing unnecessary wear and tear. A professional HVAC team can perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size for your home.
Your geographical location plays a significant role in determining the ideal SEER rating. In hot and humid climates, higher SEER units provide more noticeable energy savings, whereas in milder regions, a mid-range SEER unit may be sufficient. Pennsylvania experiences a mix of warm summers and cold winters, making a SEER 16 or higher unit a great choice for efficiency and comfort.
In addition to federal tax credits, local energy providers and state-run programs often offer incentives for upgrading to high-efficiency cooling systems. Before purchasing a new AC, check for rebates that could help reduce your investment cost.
Scheduling yearly maintenance with a certified HVAC technician allows for early detection of potential issues. During an expert AC tune-up, a professional will clean coils, inspect refrigerant levels, and test system performance to ensure maximum efficiency.
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and force the system to work harder, reducing efficiency. Replace or clean air filters every 1–3 months to maintain proper airflow and air quality.
A clogged condensate drain can cause water leaks and humidity issues. Flushing the drain line periodically helps prevent blockages and keeps your AC system running smoothly.
When it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner, turn to the experts at Ready & Able Plumbing, Heating & Air. With over 25 years of experience serving the Harrisburg community, we take pride in delivering high-quality, energy-efficient HVAC solutions.
We back our work with a 12-year warranty on all new installations, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for a SEER 16 unit or a high-efficiency system with advanced features, our team is here to guide you through the selection and installation process.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the Ready & Able difference. With our expert cooling services and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can enjoy reliable cooling and lower energy bills for years to come.
Welcome to Ready & Able, formerly known as David LeRoy Plumbing! Although our name and brand have changed, we are still here to serve you and all of your plumbing, heating, cooling, and air quality needs!