I am buying an Air Conditioner. Is a higher SEER unit worth the money?

Question

I am buying a 3 ton unit and a 2 ton unit for a house at just under 3000sq ft (2 stories). For both units, 15 SEER would cost $2500 more than 14, and 17/16 is $1500 over the 15. $4000 is a lot of money, but I would prefer the lower summer electricity bills (I live in the southern USA). I have heard that you will get your money back within a few years with a higher SEER. I can afford to spend the money now for the higher SEER unit (but will have less money for other projects around the house) I plan to live in the house for 5-10 more years. Should I go ahead with the the higher SEER units? What is the cost to benefit ratio?

Answer 1

There is not enough difference in the units to warrant the increased price. And, I would seriously consider smaller room AC's for the bedrooms....5K to 8K, depending upon the size...bedrooms not in use do not need an AC running. In the day, you will not need the upper floors AC'd and I suspect you might get away with a 2-2 1/2 ton unit there. And it doesn't need to be on at night when you are sleeping. I cannot see how you could ever recoup your money if used like this.

Answer 2

i live in nc and build here also, know all about the heat and ac we need! 2 factors, do u have a good window unit on the house? insulated glass? low-E ? also how good is ur insulation? if these 2 answers r yes then go up to the 15 seer. if not then ur not going to see any savings on the seer because of the low insulation factor in ur windows and walls and floors.

lic. gen. contractor