What Every Homeowner Should Know About SEER Ratings
When it’s time to upgrade your home’s cooling system, one of the most important factors to consider is the SEER rating. SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) plays a crucial role in determining how efficiently your air conditioning system will operate throughout Buffalo’s warm summer months.
Breaking Down SEER Ratings
Modern AC units typically range from 13 to 21 SEER, with higher numbers indicating greater efficiency. Here’s what you need to know:
• Lower SEER units (13-16)
– More affordable upfront
– Still more efficient than older models
– Suitable for moderate cooling needs
• Higher SEER units (17-21)
– Maximum energy efficiency
– Lower monthly operating costs
– Ideal for Western New York summers
Cost Considerations
While higher SEER ratings mean better efficiency, they also come with a higher initial investment. However, homeowners in areas like Tonawanda and Kenmore often find that the energy savings offset the upfront costs within a few years of operation.
Regional Factors
For homes in Western New York communities like Hamburg and Cheektowaga, we typically recommend units with SEER ratings between 16 and 18, as they provide:
• Optimal performance for our climate
• Balanced initial investment
• Reasonable operating costs
• Sufficient cooling power
Remember that proper installation is just as important as SEER ratings. Professional installation ensures your system operates at its rated efficiency level and provides reliable comfort for years to come.
Contact our team to learn more about selecting the perfect SEER rating for your home’s new cooling system.