SEER Ratings: Get the most out of your Air Conditioner

As a consumer, you have a lot to consider when purchasing air conditioners and other key appliances. A significant factor to consider when selecting an HVAC system is energy efficiency. A SEER rating is what indicates a system's energy efficiency. Therefore, it's imperative you understand the ratings for your units so you choose the right unit for your budget and home. Fortunately, we have a wide range of quality products, including Goodman heat pumps, which feature high ratings. Here's what you need to know about SEER ratings.

What is SEER?

SEER means Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which measures heat pump cooling and air conditioning efficiency. The rating gauges the average cooling output your unit offers versus the amount of energy it consumes when running in line with the type of annual use patterns common in average homes. A higher rating implies improved energy efficiency provided by the system. Although an HVAC unit with a high rating may be costly, you'll notice a reduction in utility costs for your business or home owing to the system's efficiency. Moreover, less energy consumption reduces your carbon footprint.

SEER Ratings

The U.S. has three regions depending on the climate for the states incorporated in those regions. This implies that the ratings can vary across stares. These regional principles took effect for all HVAC equipment produced after January 1, 2015. The guidelines are as follows:

• North- Most of the United States, including Alaska, falls into this area for SEER ratings. If you reside in this region, 14 SEER is the new minimum for packaged HVAC systems and 13 for split systems where the unit elements are housed in the home and outdoors. Heat pumps should be rated 14 SEER or 8.2 HSPF for split systems and 8.0 HSPF for packaged units.

• Southwest-This region comprises California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. The minimum rating in these states is 14 for AC units regardless of the type you purchase. For heat pumps, 8.0 HSPF is the minimum for packaged units and 8.2 for split systems.

However, 14 is the minimum SEER for all types. All AC systems should also meet EER rating, which gauges the system's efficiency as though external temperatures were consistently 95 degrees daily, making it a more precise performance indication for homes in climates with high heat. The EER rating for packaged systems is 11 but for split systems, it can differ based on the unit's weight.

• South-This region comprises the likes of Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Alabama, and Georgia. In these areas, units should have a rating of at least 14. The heating system should have a 14 SEER rating or 8.2 HSPF for packaged units and 8.0 HSPF for packaged units. There's no EER prerequisite.

Advantages of Selecting Equipment with Higher Ratings

Although these contemporary units are typically more costly, they're worth the investment. Enhanced efficiency implies longer life, improved performance, and lower utility costs. Over time, the higher-rated equipment will pay for itself. Additionally, these systems have an Energy Guide Label indicating the approximated yearly operation cost and the approximated energy use. These approximations will help you establish the advantages of investing in the system. Similar to other systems, you shouldn't overlook maintenance and care. While newer models are usually quiet and function without issues, routine maintenance is still necessary. Frequently planned maintenance visits offer the care your system requires to avoid problems and ensure it continues living up to expectations. Other benefits of buying high-efficiency machine such as a Goodman heat pump include:

• Tax breaks and incentives

Some contemporary equipment due to enhanced energy efficiency qualifies for tax credits. The credits are accessible on a certain proportion of the cost or a particular amount. Make sure you verify the expiration dates for the credits.

• Improved Performance

The systems have higher efficiency since they're specially designed for superiority. They have constituents that permit them to consume less energy and allow for more durability.

• Environmental Friendliness

Systems with higher ratings decrease air pollution and the consumption of fossil fuel. Moreover, they don't use refrigerants that result in ozone depletion.

• Additional Features

AC units with higher ratings usually come with appealing features, for instance, more user-friendly programs and options, advanced controls, quieter operation, and overall enhanced comfort. SEER is an important standard that measures the energy efficiency of your HVAC. One of its major benefits is the ability to compare the operating expenses of different models. If you're uncertain about your equipment's SEER, consider buying Goodman heat pump for sale.