Managing home temperatures isn’t just about comfort. You also need to consider your energy bills. Investing in an energy-efficient central air unit can ensure significant savings over its lifespan. But with so many options and technical terms, how do you make the right choice for your home?
What SEER Rating Do I Need?
In New York, 14 SEER is the minimum rating for new central air conditioners. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently an air conditioner can convert electricity into cooling power.
The higher the SEER rating, the better the long-term savings will be. If you want optimal energy efficiency and long-term savings, you could consider a unit with a better SEER rating of 16 or higher.
The ideal rating for you will depend on the climate around your home, the size and design of your home, insulation, layout, and your budget. Long Island’s summers are both hot and humid, so efficiency matters.
Should I Get a 13 or 16 SEER Air Conditioner?
Follow this simple rule to get the best air conditioner for your money: get the highest SEER rating you can afford. The difference between a 13 SEER and 16 SEER air conditioner is cost and efficiency.
- A 13 SEER air conditioner will cost more to run over its lifetime. That means less savings. Requirements in New York are actually higher. New units must be at least 14 SEER.
- A 16 SEER air conditioner will cost less to run over its lifetime. That means bigger savings.
Balancing your budget with long-term costs is challenging. It’s crucial you choose an experienced central AC installer that will provide accurate load calculation and project the long-term costs and savings. Soundview HVAC will assist you in choosing the best air conditioner for your budget.
Are SMART Central Air Units More Efficient?
SMART features can make central air units more efficient. This is achieved through technologies that adjust cooling based on live weather data, and monitoring when you are in and out of your home. These features take the guesswork out of cooling your home and will optimize comfort based on your lifestyle needs. When possible, invest in an air conditioning system that incorporates SMART features.
- A new central air unit installation can integrate SMART features from the ground up.
- You can retrofit a SMART thermostat to an existing system to improve efficiency.
The Best Team for Your Energy-Efficient Central Air Installation
Soundview HVAC has decades of experience installing energy-efficient air conditioning units in Suffolk County. We will supply and integrate a system that suits your home with a SEER rating that fits within your budget. Contact us for your free home comfort consultation today.
