The SEER rating is one of the most important indicators to keep in mind when buying a new air conditioner. Are you wondering what it is, and why it’s important? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This AC service company in Hinsdale, Illinois is going to explain some of the key things homeowners should know about these ratings.

SEER ratings help you understand AC efficiency.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it shows you the amount of cooling your air conditioner provides compared to the energy it consumes. An air conditioner with a higher rating performs better and uses less electricity.

Buying a unit with a lower SEER rating may initially be less expensive, but cooling your house will require more energy. The result is that your electricity rates will likely increase each month, and those extra costs can add up over time.

In comparison, air conditioners with higher SEER ratings are more efficient at conserving energy. This keeps your utility bills down. And because these units are not required to run at maximum capacity all the time, they also last longer.

This is why choosing the right SEER level is necessary when buying a new air conditioner. If you are not sure which SEER rating is best for your home, an experienced AC service company in Hinsdale, Illinois can help you figure it out.

The new SEER2 rating system

When you go shopping, you may notice something new if you have not replaced your air conditioner in a long time. The original SEER system was replaced by SEER2 in 2023. This is because the testing methods used in the past failed to accurately represent how air conditioners work in homes.

These new SEER2 tests evaluate factors like air duct resistance and the normal pressure your system encounters daily. In other words, SEER2 provides a more realistic view of how well your air conditioner will operate in your home.

The lowest SEER2 rating for residences in Hinsdale and other northern regions is 13.4. However, choosing the bare minimum of units may not provide you with the greatest comfort or savings. You usually get more than simply improved efficiency when you get a unit with a higher SEER2 rating. These systems typically come with modern conveniences like smart thermostats and variable-speed compressors. 

If you are unsure what this means, your local AC service company in Hinsdale, Illinois can help. They will explain the options, show you how much a higher-rated unit can save, and help you choose the best option for your house and price range.

SEER ratings are more important than you might think

Although saving money is undoubtedly a major benefit, choosing an air conditioner with the right SEER rating is about more than that. High-efficiency AC units offer extra benefits that can improve the comfort level in your home.

For example, these units tend to be quieter. The harsh on/off sounds of older or less efficient units can be irritating, especially at night. However, high-SEER units can run for a longer period at lower speeds. This reduces noise and provides consistent, peaceful cooling.

Improved humidity control is an additional benefit. Your air conditioner extracts more moisture from the air when it runs at slower speeds for longer cycles. As a result, your home feels less humid and cooler overall.

Additionally, the system is less stressed when operating at a lower speed. This prolongs its service life and saves you money on future repairs and replacements.

Looking for an AC Service Company in Hinsdale, Illinois?

Do you have questions about SEER ratings, or want to make sure your home stays cool without high energy bills? If so, and if you are looking for a professional AC service company in Hinsdale, Illinois that can assist with all your air conditioning needs, Hearthstone Heating & Air Conditioning is the top choice. Contact us at (630) 435-9800 to get started.