Understanding the New SEER 2 Rating and Why It Matters
Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s a critical consideration for homeowners who are intent on saving money and who also want to support environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a big shift in how we think about cooling efficiency. The release of these new ratings affects new HVAC installations as well as routine AC maintenance and repairs. Let’s learn more about the nuances of these changes and what impact they could have on you.
The Basics of SEER and SEER 2
SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the standard metric used to evaluate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the lower the operating expenditures. 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 computations are created under specific test conditions to establish consistency.
SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It applies amended testing processes to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Because of this, you should be prepared to see that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be less than SEER ratings that do not have a "2", even though they assess the same performance.
SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A comparable cooling rating referred to as the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also moving to a new standard called EER 2. And, heat pumps have a heating-related rating for cold weather performance. It’s referred to as heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more stringent testing criteria.
New SEER Rating Standards for 2023
These kinds of changes could make you wonder—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has set differing requirements for the Northern and Southern United States. Not surprisingly, the South has tighter requirements because this region has to depend more heavily on air conditioning. Here’s what to know when purchasing a new air conditioning unit 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 transition to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is vital for several reasons.
Cost Savings
The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units empower homeowners to make educated decisions about new HVAC installations, likely leading to reduced energy bills over the system’s life span.
Environmental Impact
Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating use lower energy. This minimizes your property's carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.
Regulatory Compliance
Following the new SEER rating standards and learning about the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Please remember, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that meets new testing standards.
In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, so long as they were made before January 1. However, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant AC units can be installed after January 1. If an installer ignores these regulations and is cited by the DOE, they have to replace the non-compliant AC unit at no cost to the homeowner.
SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations
If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioning system in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings indicated on the tag. Either rating may be deemed compliant, if it meets the regional minimum.
However, it’s vital to note that the new SEER rating standards only apply to systems bought and installed after January 1, 2023. Current systems installed prior to this date don’t need to be replaced if they still operate properly. This exception makes sure homeowners aren’t weighed down by more expenses but are still able to encourage future investments in more energy-efficient options.
Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
Appreciating SEER 2 is about more than just grasping a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your home with the evolving landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact measurement to the table, impacting the way homeowners plan new HVAC installations.
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is ahead of the curve when it concerns this latest age of heating and cooling efficiency. Our dedication to excellence, professionalism and budget-friendly financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can move forward with confidence. From instructing homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to providing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in North America, the team at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to make your decisions easier.
Reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to find out how we can help you adapt to the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you create a more energy-efficient home personalized to your needs and aligned with the future of HVAC technology. Call 866-397-3787 today to get your appointment for air conditioning service in North America.