Whether you are looking for a new air conditioning system for your home or business, it’s important to choose the most energy-efficient option. Unfortunately, some of the terminology used when discussing AC efficiency can be a bit confusing. If you’ve been researching new systems, you may have found yourself confused about the differences in SEER and SEER2 ratings. Discover more about the difference between these two efficiency ratings today.
What Are SEER Ratings?
SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, was the way to measure air conditioner efficiency before the updated SEER2 took effect. Every air conditioner has a SEER rating. SEER ratings are calculated by dividing the total cooling output of a system by the total energy used to run the system. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner. Still, a point to note is that SEER measures the maximum efficiency of a unit, not its ordinary, everyday energy efficiency.
It is also important that you understand what constitutes a good SEER rating. For years, air conditioners were required to have a minimum SEER rating of 13. Today, most residential air conditioners have a minimum SEER rating of 14. SEER ratings often fall within the 16-18 range, while the numbers can go as high as 25.
Critical Differences With SEER2 and When They Take Effect
While SEER had been a long-running system for measuring air conditioner efficiency, it no longer is the dominant measuring stick. Now, there is a new, updated system for measuring air conditioner efficiency called SEER2. In essence, SEER2 is the same as SEER, but with harsher testing conditions. The calculations and numbering system remain the same with SEER2, but the stricter testing conditions associated with SEER2 ratings mean that most of these ratings are around 4.3% lower than SEER ratings.
The major change with the switch from SEER to SEER2, apart from the change in test conditions, is the increase in the minimum SEER rating needed for newly installed air conditioning systems. On January 1st, 2023, the Energy Department changed the air conditioning system to SEER2. The primary purpose of the Energy Department in changing the SEER rating system was to save consumers billions on their air conditioning systems over the next several decades while also lessening the impact that air conditioners had on the environment.
What This Means for You
These stricter SEER2 ratings are great news for homeowners or business owners who want to have a new air conditioner installed. When having a new air conditioner installed, the company that you choose is required to offer you one of these more energy-efficient models. While you can certainly choose to hang onto your AC and its standard SEER rating, it is nice to know that there are more efficient options out there. Any new air conditioner must adhere to SEER2’s minimum regional standards.
When dealing with SEER2 ratings, every point matters. For instance, if you’re shopping for a 4-ton air conditioning unit, choosing one with a SEER2 rating of 16 instead of a SEER2 rating of 14 can result in savings of roughly $1,000 over the life of the unit.
Whether you are looking to save money by upgrading your air conditioner to a more efficient option, or your old air conditioner is no longer able to meet your cooling needs, it’s important to choose the HVAC company that will do the best job for you. Working with a company like Controlled Climate Services in Kennesaw, GA ensures that you are going to receive quality service from a comfort specialist who knows what they’re talking about.
A Few Final Thoughts
Controlled Climate Services has been one of the most trusted names in Kennesaw, GA for years. This is primarily because we offer a variety of services that go beyond merely installing and servicing air conditioning systems. We can also handle your furnace installation and repair, indoor air quality needs, heat pump and commercial refrigeration services, and ventilation services. We offer 24/7 emergency services for problems that can’t wait for regular business hours. We even have financing options available should you need them. Our team has worked tirelessly to establish and maintain a sterling reputation among homeowners and business owners in our community. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
