What Are SEER Ratings and How Can You Use Them to Inform Your HVAC Unit Replacement Decision?

There comes a time when every homeowner needs to decide whether to replace their HVAC unit or keep using their old model. It’s not an easy decision – you have to measure the expenses and benefits, gauging what is a priority for you and your family.

A key factor you’ll want to consider when making your decision is the SEER rating of your HVAC system. At first glance, the SEER rating might seem like an arbitrary number to the average buyer, but it’s an essential performance indicator that can help you discern an HVAC unit’s value and functionality.

What Is an HVAC SEER Rating?

The SEER (“Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio”) is a measure of HVAC efficiency. The rating is calculated by dividing the cooling output of an air conditioner during a typical season by the energy it consumes in watt-hours. This ratio reflects the efficiency with which the unit converts electrical energy into cooling power. In other words, the higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit is.

What is the Ideal SEER Rating for a Texas Homeowner?

The U.S. Department of Energy establishes the minimum SEER standards for HVAC systems, but the minimum requirement varies by region. Texas's minimum requirement for newly installed HVAC units was 14 SEER until this year, when it increased to 15. However, you shouldn’t automatically settle for the minimum rating.

Systems with higher SEER ratings can significantly reduce energy consumption and utility bills while still producing the same cooling output as lower SEER-rated units. That’s why the recommended SEER rating range for homeowners in Texas is 16 to 18, which strikes a balance between energy efficiency and upfront purchase and installation costs.

Does an HVAC with a Higher SEER Rating Cost Less Over the Life of the System?

Upgrading your HVAC system from a 14 SEER unit to just a 16 SEER unit can save homeowners roughly 10 percent on their cooling costs. Higher SEER-rated units use less energy to generate the same cooling output as lower SEER-rated units, which require more robust watt usage.

Upgrading to a higher SEER-rated unit can ensure optimal cooling performance and minimize your energy usage. By investing in a more efficient HVAC system, homeowners can save money on their monthly energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. This can be especially important for Texas residents, as we heavily rely on our air conditioners to protect us against the brutally hot summer season.

How the SEER Rating Can Affect Your Decision to Replace Your HVAC Unit

Your decision to exchange your current HVAC unit for one with a higher SEER rating may come down to how much you’re looking to spend. The ideal SEER rating for each household varies depending on the size of your home, its insulation quality and how you handle the Texas heat. Replacing your HVAC system with a higher SEER-rated unit offers long-term savings, but the downside for some is the elevated upfront cost.

While that initial investment can deter homeowners, the money you save on energy bills can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run. You should consider your short-term and long-term budgets when deciding what your SEER rating range looks like.

An experienced HVAC specialist can help you determine the right SEER rating for your specific needs. By leveraging SEER ratings and making an informed choice, you can ensure your home is comfortable, energy-efficient and financially sound.

Our Arlington, Texas HVAC Experts Make Replacing Your System Easy

At Tom’s Mechanical, Inc., we have over 60 years of experience equipping homes with modern and highly-rated HVAC technology. Our skilled technicians will make sure you and your family are comfortable with the best protection from the sweltering Texas sun. For AC replacement and installation services made simple, give us a call at (817) 277-4493 or contact us online.