Comparing SEER ratings and annual savings is a great way to visualize the benefits of upgrading your central air system. Soundview HVAC is your local HVAC installer in Suffolk County offering the most efficient systems to meet your home comfort needs.
What Affects Central Air Savings?
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measurement of how efficiently an HVAC system can convert electricity into cooling power.
Upgrades and new HVAC installations require a SEER rating of 14 or higher in New York. The SEER rating of your system will affect long-term savings, but there are other factors to consider.
- Your home’s insulation and air sealing. Well-insulated homes are more efficient and cost less to cool.
- How often you run your AC and at what temperature.
- Total cooling hours each year.
- The difference between your old system and the upgrade. A larger jump in SEER rating results in greater savings.
- Current electricity rates. PSEG Long Island’s rates fluctuate, so savings can vary from year to year.
What are the Savings When Upgrading from a 10 SEER Central Air Unit?
Use this comparison table as a guide to see how average annual savings are affected by SEER ratings. We have based this on an average electricity cost of $0.28 per kWh and annual cooling consumption of 3,500 kWh from a 10 SEER unit.
|
Current SEER Rating |
New SEER Rating |
% More Efficient (Approx.) |
Estimated Annual Cooling Energy Consumption (kWh) |
Estimated Annual Cooling Cost |
Potential Annual Savings (vs. 10 SEER) |
|
(Older Unit) 10 SEER |
– |
(Baseline) |
3,500 kWh |
$980 |
– |
|
10 SEER |
14 SEER |
40% |
2,500 kWh |
$700 |
$280 |
|
10 SEER |
16 SEER |
60% |
2,188 kWh |
$613 |
$367 |
|
10 SEER |
18 SEER |
80% |
1,944 kWh |
$544 |
$436 |
|
10 SEER |
21 SEER |
110% |
1,667 kWh |
$467 |
$513 |
Real savings will depend on the size of your home and how you use your air conditioner. It’s vital that you have a detailed consultation and load calculation to determine the ideal system for your home.
Unit prices increase with SEER ratings, so you will pay more upfront for the most efficient central air systems. However, higher efficiency means better long-term savings, creating a better investment over time.
Is 14 SEER Enough for a Home on Long Island?
14 SEER is the minimum efficiency rating for a home on Long Island. It will generate noticeable annual savings compared to an older unit. Units approaching replacement age today typically range from 8 to 10 SEER.
14 SEER may be perfect for your home and needs. You will generate more savings by choosing a system with a SEER rating above 14.
Begin Your Home Comfort Consultation
Soundview HVAC will evaluate your home to propose the best system for your comfort needs and budget. We prioritize efficiency and affordability. We can assist with financing and you may qualify for tax incentives and other financial benefits. Schedule your home comfort consultation and upgrade to a modern air unit with a trusted local central AC installer.
