Understanding the New SEER 2 Rating and Why It Matters

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s an essential consideration for homeowners who want to save money and who also want to promote environmental sustainability. The introduction of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a substantial shift in how we look at cooling efficiency. Release of the new calculations affects new HVAC installations as well as regular AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the intricacies of these changes and how they apply to you.

The Basics of SEER and SEER 2

SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the conventional metric utilized to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the less the operating charges.

SEER is computed by dividing the cooling output during a typical cooling season—measured in British thermal units, or BTUs—by the energy consumed in the process as measured in watt-hours. These calculations are created under precise test conditions to establish consistency.

SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It applies modified testing processes to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Consequently, you should anticipate that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be less than SEER ratings that do not have a “2”, even though they reflect the same performance.

SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A corresponding cooling rating referred to as the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also changing to a new standard called EER 2. Also, heat pumps have a heating-related rating for winter season operation. It’s referred to as heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more rigorous testing requirements.

New SEER Rating Standards for 2023

These kinds of changes may make you wonder—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has set different minimums for the Northern and Southern United States. Obviously, the South has tighter requirements because this region has to depend more heavily on AC units. Here’s what to know when shopping for a new AC or heat pump:

• • The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Northern states is 14 SEER, which translates to 13.4 SEER 2.

• • The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Southern states is 15 SEER, which is equivalent to 14.3 SEER 2.

• • The 2023 minimum EER rating only applies to air conditioners installed in Southwestern states. It’s 12.2 EER, which is the same as 11.7 EER 2.

• • The 2023 minimum ratings for heat pumps apply nationwide. They are 15 SEER (14.3 SEER 2) and 8.8 HSPF (7.5 HSPF 2).

Why SEER 2 Matters for Homeowners

The change to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is crucial for many reasons.

Cost Savings

The more accurate measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units allow homeowners to make educated decisions about new HVAC installations, likely leading to diminished energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating consume lower energy. This decreases your property’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Following the newly released SEER rating standards and understanding the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Bear in mind, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that satisfies new testing requirements.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 ACs can still be installed in 2023, so long as they were produced before January 1. Having said that, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioning systems can be installed after January 1. If an installer ignores these regulations and is penalized by the DOE, they need to replace the non-compliant AC unit free of cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re thinking about buying a new air conditionerair conditioning system} in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings depicted on the tag. Either rating may be deemed compliant, as long as it satisfies the regional minimum.

But bear in mind, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only pertain to systems bought and installed after January 1, 2023. Any HVAC systems installed before this date don’t need to be replaced if they still operate properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t weighed down by extra expenses but are still able to promote future investments in more energy-efficient options.

Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Understanding SEER 2 is about more than just being introduced to a new technical concept. Actually, it’s about aligning your residence with the changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more accurate measurement to the table, influencing the way homeowners plan new HVAC installations.

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is ahead of the curve when it concerns this new age of heating and cooling efficiency. Our devotion to excellence, professionalism and affordable financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can plan your HVAC purchases and repairs with confidence. From educating homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to doing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in the U.S., the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help.

Get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to find out how we can help you embrace the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you develop a more energy-efficient home personalized to your needs and aligned with the future of air conditioning technology. Call 866-397-3787 today to get your appointment for air conditioning service in the U.S..