SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently an air conditioner operates over a typical cooling season. It’s calculated by dividing the total cooling output (in BTUs) by the total electrical energy input (in watt-hours). A higher SEER rating indicates greater efficiency, leading to lower utility bills.
SEER2 is the updated version of this rating system. It uses more rigorous testing procedures that better reflect real-world conditions, like how your AC actually performs with ductwork and airflow resistance in a typical Edmonton home. Because of this, SEER2 ratings are slightly lower than SEER, even though the equipment performance hasn’t changed. For example, a unit with a 15.2 SEER2 rating is roughly equivalent to a 16 SEER under the old scale.
In Alberta, where summers can get hot and dry, a SEER2 rating of 14.3 or higher is generally recommended for energy efficiency and comfort. Some systems go as high as 18+ SEER2. While higher-rated systems cost more upfront, they offer better long-term savings.
Air circulation issues in your home? If you are experiencing this, check the vents in those warmer rooms. Vents bringing hot or cool air into the house winter/summer accumulate dust, pet dander, whatever, and should be vacuumed on a regular basis to ensure good air flow. At the same time make sure that your return air vents are not blocked by furniture or other items pushed up against them.
Yes—you definitely should! Even though your furnace isn’t heating your home during the summer, your HVAC system still uses the same ductwork and blower when you run your central air conditioner. That means your furnace filter is still working hard to trap dust, pollen, pet hair, and smoke particles—especially during Edmonton’s dry, dusty summers or wildfire season.
In fact, summer can be one of the most important times to stay on top of filter changes if:
You use central AC
You have allergies
You experience poor outdoor air quality (like wildfire smoke)
You have pets that shed
Not sure when to change it? Our Air Filter Delivery Add-On (available with ProComfort or ProHeating Memberships) makes it easy. We deliver the right filter size on your preferred schedule—so your home stays cool and your air stays clean, no matter the season.
Does the size of AC unit effect performance? Yes!
If the unit is too large, the space gets too cool and humidity is not removed. You’ll feel cold and clammy. Plus the frequent cycling can wear out your AC Unit faster since the hardest load on your AC is when you start it up. You can also freeze up the AC unit if the air flow is too low and the unit can not be kept from freezing up. Freezing up of a central AC system is a recipe for disaster on the HVAC equipment.
Book your home estimate today, and our Pros can recommend the best size AC for your home and needs.
Yes, a 16 SEER AC is worth it. Although it will be more expensive to buy than a less efficient air conditioning unit, a 16 SEER AC will help you save on energy costs.
16 SEER air conditioners are energy efficient, meaning they will use less energy than units with a lower SEER rating. As a result, you’ll notice significant savings in energy costs over the years. In fact, the more energy-efficient your AC the better.
HVAC professionals suggest that homeowners purchase the highest SEER unit they can afford. In addition to saving more on utility bills, buying a highly efficient air conditioner can also help you secure energy efficiency government rebates, depending on where you live.
Trust ProSolutions Inc.’s recommendation: Ameristar Air Conditioning brand for a refreshing summer ahead.
It is not cheaper to install AC in Edmonton in the winter, contrary to popular belief. While some ACs may be sold in the Winter, they cannot be fully installed and activated until the temperature reaches above +10° ! That means, a second visit is often needed once the weather clears up. Instead, consider saving your AC purchase until the Spring. Many companies, ProSolutions included, is gearing up for the Summer and looking forward to the early birds.
If you require air conditioner and furnace installation, having both replaced at the same time may also help you save money.
Check out our air conditioner installation, repair and maintenance deals here – Cooling System Coupons.
If you find leaking water under the furnace, the drain line may be clogged with dirt, dust, and fungus growth.
You can try unplugging it with a wet-dry vac, but it’s better to let the experts at ProSolutions Inc. handle it. They can help you with AC repairs, including fixing leakages.
The size of AC you need will depend on several factors.
For help finding the right size AC for your home, book your free home estimate! We will help you find the right size and the right unit for your needs. Our technician will complete a load calculation to determine what size AC you need. Factors like the size of your home, the local climate, the number of appliances you have, etc. will be taken into account.
Keep in mind, while you can have an AC unit that is too small you can also have a unit that is too big. An AC that is too small will not be able to cool your whole home and a unit that is too big will waste energy. In both scenarios, your utility bill will be more than necessary and you will likely be reducing the lifespan of the air conditioner! The size of AC you need is essential to your home comfort. ProSolutions can help you find the perfect air conditioner unit for your home and get it installed for the perfect Summer.
With temperatures rising nationwide alongside our everchanging Albertan weather, we want to stay comfortable and cool while keeping our bills as low as possible—and the best way to do that is by making sure your air conditioning systems are working …
Read MoreWhat do Canada’s new AC refrigerant regulations mean for you? If you’re anything like us, you like your home to be your sanctuary—comfortable even during a heatwave. That’s why it’s important to know what’s happening with Canada’s new refrigerant regulations …
Read MoreAir conditioning is 100% worth it in St. Albert. The summers in St. Albert get very hot and an efficient, properly calibrated AC provides a comfortable indoor space. As a result, many St. Albert homeowners have installed air conditioning in recent years. Now, more than 60% of homes in Alberta use AC during the summer months.
A central AC is your best bet for efficient and reliable cooling if you want to escape the heat this summer.
Thinking of installing a new AC in your St. Albert home? You may require a permit for your new air conditioner. Don’t worry, ProSolutions can help. Our experienced St. Albert AC company will be there every step of the way - from helping you choose the perfect AC to filing for permits, and more. Plus, our local technicians will guarantee that your new air conditioner is perfectly calibrated so you can enjoy optimal home comfort, even on the hottest days.
It costs approximately $4,500 to $9,500+ to install air conditioning in St. Albert. The total cost for a new AC depends on several factors, such as:
An air conditioner with a high-efficiency rating and many advanced features will cost the most upfront. However, this type of AC will also help you save on energy costs. Therefore, it is recommended that you purchase the most efficient air conditioning unit you can afford.
ProSolutions offers a wide range of AC brands at price points to fit all budgets.
A high-efficiency AC costs about $30-45 per month to operate in St. Albert. However, the less efficient your air conditioner is, the more it will cost to keep turned on. Compared to a high-efficiency AC, like a 16 SEER or higher, an inefficient unit can cost $100+ per month in electricity.
As you can see, buying a new air conditioner with a high-efficiency rating can help you save a significant amount in energy costs!
ProSolutions Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning doesn't just work in Edmonton. We also serve the surrounding communities, including:
