Taking a Look at Current Air Conditioning Standards
May 17, 2024
The air conditioning industry has come a long way from the earliest development of the first air conditioning system in 1902. Today, advancements in technology and a better understanding of energy usage and comfort control have led to highly-efficient air conditioning systems that are readily available to the public at an affordable price. When it’s time to consider new air conditioning installation in your Troy home, taking the time to learn about the latest air conditioning standards and technology can help you make a more informed and better choice for your needs.
Understanding SEER
SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a value used to measure the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps, which also provide home air conditioning during the summer. The SEER value is calculated by comparing the amount of cooling an air conditioner produces each hour with the amount of energy consumed during the same time period—a more efficient air conditioner will use less energy to produce more cooling than a less efficient unit, yielding a higher SEER rating.
Examining Current SEER
Prior to 2015, the minimum required SEER value for all newly-manufactured air conditioners and heat pumps was 13. However, systems manufactured and installed prior to January of 2006 could have a SEER value of 10 or lower, in keeping with previous standards. Today, all new air conditioners and heat pumps installed as of January 2015, must have a minimum rating of SEER 13-14, depending on the type of system and the region in which it is installed. As a northern state, Michigan homeowners can continue to purchase and install air conditioning systems with SEER 13, but all new heat pump systems must meet a minimum of SEER 14.
Choosing the Best SEER
If you’re considering new air conditioning installation, these new standards could affect the best options for your home. While you can install a new air conditioner with a minimum SEER of 13, if you want to install a heat pump system, you’ll need a unit with a SEER of at least 14. These values are only the minimum industry requirements for new systems—there are also home cooling systems available with much higher SEER ratings as well. While the initial price of a new air conditioning system will rise with increasing SEER, it’s also important to evaluate the long-term energy savings you can expect from higher-efficiency systems. Because home cooling systems last an average of 15-20 years, you’re likely to easily make up the added cost of a more efficient system within the first few years of purchase. Your Troy, MI, air conditioning installation service can help you evaluate the benefits you’ll gain over your current cooling system when you choose a unit with increasing SEER; you can use the savings estimates you receive based on your home and your usage habits to decide which type of home cooling system and which SEER value is best for your needs to balance to cost of air conditioning installation with long-term home cooling.
As basic air conditioning standards continue to rise, homeowners will continue to benefit from more efficient and longer-lasting cooling systems that deliver superior home comfort and convenience. If it’s time to consider a new air conditioner for your home, you can reach our Troy, MI, air conditioning installation experts via our website, where you’ll also find more information about our comprehensive HVAC services, products, and solutions. You can also check out our monthly blog for even more HVAC tips, information, and advice you can use to enjoy more efficient home comfort at lower cost every day.