This is the time of year when things really start to heat up outside. If your air conditioner had a hard time keeping up last year, a new unit could help you stay much more comfortable this year. Here are the features you should look for, in addition to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, to help you make the most out of your investment.
- High EER rating: This is similar to SEER, except the EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating indicates how well the system will perform when the weather is at its hottest. SEER is a measure of seasonal efficiency. For peak efficiency on the hottest days, look for EER 11.6 or greater along with SEER 14 or higher for prolonged efficiency all season long.
- Variable-speed air handler: Many air handlers are single-speed, meaning they can only run on high speed. A variable-speed model allows for varying levels of operation for improved comfort, lower energy bills, and improved filtration and dehumidification.
- Quiet operation: Enjoy cool, dehumidified air while avoiding annoying background noise made by loud air conditioners.
- Fan-only switch: At night, when heat gain is much lower, the fan-only switch is useful for ventilating your home while saving significantly on your cooling bills.
- Filter-check light: The usual recommendation is to change your filter every one to two months. This is a wide window, however, and leaves plenty of room for error. With a check-filter light, your unit tells you when a certain number of operating hours have elapsed, therefore enabling you to change the filter at exactly the right time.
- Automatic-delay fan switch: The fan is responsible for blowing conditioned air into your home. When your system leaves the fan operating for a few minutes after the compressor turns off, all the cool air lingering in the ductwork can be distributed. That way, you get to enjoy every bit of air you paid to condition.
For more information about choosing the best air conditioner for your Twin Cities Metro area home, please contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning today.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about SEER ratings and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning services Minnesota’s Twin Cities. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!