Q: I'm having a 2,300-square-foot home built for me, but I don't know how "efficient" an air conditioner I should have installed. The builder will put in a 13 SEER-rated AC as part of the package, but will upgrade to a 14.5 SEER for $550 more or a 16 SEER for $3,000 more. What's your advice?
A: The efficiency of air conditioners is rated by what is called the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER, and of course, the higher the rating the more energy efficient an air conditioner will be. Many older HVAC systems have SEER ratings of 6 or less; the minimum allowed today is 13.
If you pay a $3,000 upcharge for a 16 SEER model, you might not recoup your investment with the resulting lower monthly payments for energy unless you live in the house for a very long time. In addition, remember that when those SEER ratings are done, they are measured by technicians in perfect "laboratory" conditions. In the real world, you may not have those conditions.
If you choose to buy a more costly AC, make sure the builder puts in rigid ductwork rather than flexible ductwork. Rigid ducts will be more durable and provide fewer air-flow restrictions. You also want them to install oversized air returns in the house in multiple locations. You might want to consult with an outside air-conditioning firm about the quality of the equipment that the builder will install.
Over the long run, you will be more comfortable in your home if it has a well-designed and -constructed ductwork system than you will be with a more costly piece of equipment.
For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home building and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning Rosie on the House radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) and-FM (97.1) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 1-888-767-4348.
