One of our customers bought a new Trane XR16 and have seen savings throughout this year compared to last year
One of the biggest causes to an expensive electric bill is the air conditioner, its the number one energy user in your home and if it’s old, needs repairs often, and is expensive then it’s probably time to replace. When getting a new AC unit, you will hear a lot about efficiency and wonder if a new system is actually going to save you money on the electric bill. We can definitely say yes and it’s thanks to modern air conditioner design which is taking efficiency to new heights, higher efficiency standards that manufacturers must meet, and accessories that can help save money on utilities.
First What is SEER?
SEER is an acronym for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, it tells you how efficient your air conditioner is, and it is measured by dividing the cooling output with the total electric energy input. In the United States, BTU or british thermal units is divided by watts per hour.
Modern Systems are More Efficient
The efficiency of new air conditioners is held to a higher SEER standard then older systems, new systems at least need to be a 14 SEER according to the 2015 Federal Regional Standards. Older air conditioners could be rated as low as 5 or 6 SEER and at the highest 10 SEER. If you were to get the bare minimum 14 SEER new unit and you had a 10 SEER, you can still expect to save about 25% on current energy cost. Modern AC units have better design, but the more expensive higher SEER units (along with a programmable thermostat) can communicate and have variable speed motors and compressors that can allocate how much energy to use. Also, homeowners can now have their systems zoned and control the comfort of each room under one central AC unit. The higher rated systems may cost more initially but will save money in the long run since they are very efficient and effective. Whether budget minded or want the best system around your going to save money with a new air conditioner.
We’ve done a Trane zoned air conditioning system install with high-efficiency systems.