SEER Ratings: Helping AL Homeowners Choose New AC Units

Choosing a new AC unit can be a daunting task, especially for homeowners in Alabama. AC units are not just a comfort but they are a necessity in summer. During the warmer months, temperatures can reach the triple digits, posing serious safety risks for children and the elderly. 

Luckily, there’s an incredibly helpful tool that can help homeowners decide which unit is best for their energy requirements. 

What Are SEER Ratings?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Essentially, this ratio measures how well an air conditioner or heat pump functions when they are using a certain amount of energy. The better the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is. 

However, what is considered efficient varies from region to region across the US since different requirements have varying energy needs. For example, an AC unit that has an acceptable SEER rating in the Pacific Northwest may not be appropriate for the humid climate in the Southeast. 

A SEER rating of 15 is the minimum standard for AC equipment in the Southeast, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA.) For Alabama homeowners, a rating higher than 15 would be ideal. 

Why SEER Ratings Matter

The more efficient your AC unit is, the less energy it requires to effectively cool your home. Homeowners can set their thermostats higher, and use less energy. This is not only beneficial for the environment but this also cuts down on future utility bills. 

Having an AC unit with an above-average rating reduces energy costs, which can have huge financial benefits for Alabama homeowners. The state’s warm climate means that AC units are running more often than they would in other parts of the United States. This is especially true in the summer when AC units are working overtime.

Units in Alabama are not only compensating for the extra heat but they must work to remove the humidity from the air. This additional workload increases the risk of malfunctions and can cause your unit to prematurely wear out. To ensure that Alabama homeowners are getting the most out of their AC units, it's important to consider SEER ratings when purchasing a new unit. 

Do SEER Ratings Affect AC Unit Pricing?

Unfortunately, a better SEER rating means that homeowners will likely pay more in upfront costs. However, the initial costs may be worth it. A more efficient unit will save on future energy bills, potentially offsetting the costs of the initial installment. 

What Does This Mean for Alabama Homeowners?

While units with a SEER rating above 15 may have higher upfront costs, the price may justify long-term savings on future energy bills. Units with a higher rating are ideal for homeowners looking to maximize their potential savings.

However, for some homeowners, the SEER rating may not justify the upfront costs. This could be due to several factors including budget, energy demands or how long they plan on staying in their home. It’s important to consult with a professional HVAC technician to find the solution that fits your needs. 

Benefits of Consulting a Professional

Professional HVAC technicians have the knowledge and tools to perform in-depth inspections. During these inspections, they can examine your entire HVAC unit for lapses in efficiency. Their skills allow them to make personalized recommendations that satisfy your energy needs and align with your budget.

Maintenance is key

Regardless of what SEER rating your unit has, maintenance is key to maximizing your unit’s efficiency. Routine maintenance and inspections conducted by a professional HVAC technician will ensure that your unit is working efficiently.

Technicians are trained to identify underlying problems with your unit. They can catch small repairs before they turn into major problems, saving homeowners on costly repairs and improving the longevity of their AC unit. 

Looking To Install a New AC? Contact C&G Today!

If you're looking to install a new AC, our expert technicians can help! Located in Smiths Station, C & G Heating & Air Conditioning serves several communities along the Alabama-Georgia border including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.

For more information about AC unit installation, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services including heating repair and ductwork maintenance, click the link here.