SEER rating stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio”, are the method used to describe the efficiency of a particular equipment system. Substantial energy savings can be obtained from more efficient systems. For example by upgrading from SEER 9 to SEER 13, the power consumption is reduced by 30% (equal to 1 − 9/13). It is claimed that this can result in an energy savings valued at up to US$300 per year depending on the usage rate and the cost of electricity. The SEER rating of a unit is the cooling output during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. The higher the unit's SEER rating the more energy efficient it is. In the U.S., the SEER is the ratio of cooling in British thermal units (BTUs) to the energy consumed in watt-hours. The systems purchased today typically range from 13.00 SEER to 20+ SEER. If you have a home and the current system is 10-15 years old, you may have a system that ranges from 6.0 SEER to 10.00 SEER. Of course at the time it was installed, 10.00 SEER was considered “High Efficiency”. Today, with all the focus on conservation and energy savings, that “High Efficiency 10.00 SEER” from 10-15 years ago is growing obsolete. As of January 2006, all residential air conditioners sold in the United States must have a SEER of at least 13. ENERGY STAR qualified Central Air Conditioners must have a SEER of at least 14.

PLANTS. Installing more leafy plants and trees around your home helps reduce the amount of sun shining on your roof, windows, and outdoor air conditioning unit. COVER YOUR WINDOWS. Close your window blinds or curtains also install outdoor awnings, solar screens, or window film on the outside of windows. ADJUST THE TEMPERATURES. If you move your thermostat to a comfortable level you can save as much as 10 % on your electric bill. Another solution is a programmable or Smart thermostat for programming the times that you need colder air or not. USE CLEAN AIR FILTERS. Dirty air filters restrict air flow and cause the system to become inefficient, use more electricity, and cost you more money. UPGRADE YOUR SYSTEM. If you need a major repair on an older air conditioning system, consider replacing it with a new energy-efficient unit. Rule of thumb is seasonal energy efficiency ratio of 16 or higher qualifies for rebates. SEAL LEAKS. Schedule an appointment to test your home to find and fix those leaks. SIGN UP FOR ENERGY PROGRAMS. The power company installs a small switch on equipment that you enroll in the program, like your water heater, pool pump, or central air conditioner.

INDOOR UNITS Inspect and clean blower assembly On older models, lubricate motor and inspect and fan belt (inform customer if replacement is needed) Check combustion blower housing for lint and debris Inspect evaporator coil, drain pan and condensate drain lines Inspect for gas leaks in gas furnaces Inspect burner assembly Inspect ignition system and safety controls Inspect heat exchanger or heating elements Inspect fuel system Inspect control box, associated controls, wiring and connections Clean or replace air filters Inspect ductwork—check for leaks OUTDOOR UNITS Inspect unit for proper refrigerant level Clean dirt, leaves and debris from inside cabinet Inspect base pan for restricted drain openings Inspect coil and cabinet Inspect fan motor and fan blades for wear and damage Inspect control box, associated controls/accessories, wiring and connections and electrical parts should be checked for wear & tear, or damage Inspect compressor and associated tubing for damage

INSURANCE: Never hire an uninsured air conditioning contractors, no matter how low the estimate. This is a recipe for disaster that includes blowing up your bank account should anything ever go wrong with the installation. If something goes wrong, including injuries, the responsibility can fall on the homeowner if the person they hire is uninsured. PERMITS & LICENSING: First of all you should only hire a contractor that is licensed with the State of Florida, that means that the contractor is knowlegdeable and have all the requirements necessary according to the law to provide you reliable work. Also, having a license means the contractor can pull permits for the job his performing, work performed without permits could land a hefty fine in your lap, additional costs and waste of money and time.