Understanding SEER Ratings


Is it time for a new HVAC system? There are many considerations, including brands, capacity and price. As well, one of the key items to compare is the SEER rating.

What Are SEER Ratings?

While we certainly deal with plenty of searing heat during hot Arizona summers, SEER actually stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER ratings are important when comparing HVAC units because they help you determine energy efficiency which translates into how much you’ll be spending on your utility bill each month.

The SEER rating was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to give consumers an understandable comparison between manufacturers’ HVAC systems.

SEER ratings are not unlike the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the heating or cooling of a unit will be. In other words, an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 18 is more efficient than one that has a rating of 16.

The average 10 to 15-year-old air conditioner has a typical SEER rating of less than 10. Today’s models can have SEER ratings of 13 (the federal minimum) or greater. Higher rated units cost more, yet will have greater savings on monthly utility bills. There also are often tax credits and rebates to lower up-front costs.

The Benefits of Consulting an Air Conditioner Specialist

Of course, there’s more to choosing an HVAC system than looking at the SEER rating. It’s a smart idea to work with a professional HVAC system installer who has deep experience and knowledge in choosing the best system, based on the specific needs of a home and its occupants.

At Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re here to help you choose the right AC unit for your home that will keep you cool and comfortable for many years while also saving you money on your utility bill. We provide free estimates on the purchase and installation of new air conditioning units throughout the greater Phoenix metro area.

Call today at 480-968-5652 and get a free quote. We carry HVAC products from leading manufacturers, including Trane, Ruud, and Frigidaire.