When Lubbock summers hit triple digits, your air conditioner works overtime to keep your home cool. But if your AC isn’t running efficiently, you could be wasting energy and money without even realizing it.
One of the best indicators of your air conditioner’s efficiency is its SEER rating. A higher SEER rating means lower energy consumption, reduced cooling costs, and a longer system lifespan. But what rating is right for your home? Is it worth it to upgrade to a higher SEER AC?
At Lowery Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we help homeowners choose energy-efficient AC systems that maximize comfort while keeping energy bills under control. Here’s what you need to know about SEER ratings and what they mean for your air conditioning system’s performance.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an air conditioner cools your home over an entire season, comparing its cooling output to the amount of electricity it uses. Simply put, the higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your AC is.
Most modern air conditioners have SEER ratings between 14 and 22. You can typically find your AC’s SEER rating on a yellow EnergyGuide label or by looking up the model and serial number.
What’s a Good SEER Rating for Lubbock Homes?
Not every home needs the highest SEER rating possible, and the best rating for your home depends on a few factors, like climate, home size, and existing ductwork. An HVAC technician can help you determine what SEER rating will be best for your home.
In Texas, federal requirements dictate new units must have at least a 14 SEER rating. Because West Texas can reach high temps and ACs run for longer, Lubbock homes will benefit from a rating of 16 or more.
While a higher SEER rating generally means greater energy savings, it’s important to choose the right balance of efficiency and affordability for your home. A higher SEER rating unit can cost more upfront, but it often pays for itself overtime, especially in warmer areas like Lubbock.
How SEER Ratings Affect Your Energy Bills
Since a higher SEER rating means your AC uses less energy to produce the same effect as a lower-rated system, higher SEER rating ACs can help you save significantly on energy bills. According to Energy.gov, upgrading from a 9 SEER unit to a 14 SEER unit can reduce cooling costs by more than 35%.
For Lubbock homeowners, where ACs run frequently in the summer, these savings add up fast. Not only does a higher SEER rating save you money on your monthly bills, but it reduces strain on your HVAC system, extending its lifespan.
Should You Upgrade to a Higher SEER AC?
The average lifespan of an air conditioner is 15-20 years. If you’re nearing time for a replacement anyway, it’s worth it to consider a unit with a high SEER rating.
Here are some signs it’s time to upgrade your AC unit:
- Your electric bills keep increasing despite normal usage.
- Your AC struggles to keep your home cool.
- You’ve had to schedule frequent repairs.
At Lowery Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we can assess your current system and recommend the best energy-efficient AC options tailored to your home and budget.
Other Factors That Affect Air Conditioner Efficiency
1. Proper Installation
Even the highest-rated SEER unit won’t perform efficiently if installed incorrectly. Proper sizing, ductwork, and installation are critical to getting optimal efficiency and performance from your HVAC system. It’s important that you hire a qualified HVAC technician you trust to ensure the highest AC efficiency possible.
2. Regular Maintenance Boosts Efficiency
Routine AC maintenance is necessary to keep your AC running at peak efficiency, even if it has a high SEER rating. To prevent breakdowns and costly repairs, take simple steps like:
- Changing air filters every 1-3 months
- Cleaning coils and condensers
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Scheduling annual AC tune-ups with a professional HVAC technician.
3. Smart Thermostats Can Help
Using a smart thermostat can help automate cooling schedules, reducing energy use when you’re not home. By programming your thermostat efficiently, you can lower energy waste and save money without sacrificing comfort.
Get More Out of Your AC with Lowery
At Lowery Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we specialize in helping homeowners find the right SEER-rated AC system for their needs. Whether you’re looking to upgrade to a high-efficiency model or schedule a system tune-up, we’re here to help.
We also offer 24/7 emergency services—because we know AC problems don’t wait for business hours in the Texas heat!
Contact Lowery today to schedule a service or get a free estimate on a new, energy-efficient AC system!