Understanding the New SEER 2 Rating and Why It Matters

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s an important consideration for homeowners who want to save money and who also want to help improve environmental sustainability. The launch 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 scheduled AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the ins and outs of these changes and why they matter to you.

The Basics of SEER and SEER 2

SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the standard metric employed to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the lower the operating costs.

SEER is calculated by dividing the cooling output during a regular cooling season—measured in British thermal units, or BTUs—by the energy consumed in the process as measured in watt-hours. These computations are done under specific test conditions to ensure consistency.

SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It applies adjusted testing methods to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Because of this, you should anticipate that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be smaller, even though they assess the same performance.

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

New SEER Rating Standards for 2023

Such changes probably will make you wonder—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has established different minimums for the Northern and Southern United States. Needless to say, the South has more stringent requirements because this region relies more heavily on AC units. Here’s what consumers need to know when searching for a new air conditioner 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 shift to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is crucial for many reasons.

Cost Savings

The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units enable homeowners to make educated decisions about new HVAC installations, possibly leading to reduced energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating use less energy. This minimizes a building’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Adhering to the new SEER rating standards and learning about the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Of course, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that fulfills new testing standards.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioners can still be installed in 2023, just as long as they were manufactured before January 1. However, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioners can be installed after January 1. If an installer violates 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 conditioner in 2023, you might see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be deemed compliant, as long as it satisfies the regional minimum.

However, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only relate to systems purchased and installed after January 1, 2023. Current systems installed before this date don’t need to be replaced if they still function properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t burdened 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

Comprehending SEER 2 is about more than just being introduced to a new technical concept. Actually, it’s about aligning your residence with the evolving landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact measurement to the table, affecting the way homeowners think about new HVAC installations.

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is ahead of the curve when it relates to this latest period of HVAC efficiency. Our devotion to excellence, professionalism and wallet-friendly financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can plan your HVAC purchases and repairs with confidence. From instructing homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to doing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in Fort Lauderdale, the team at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to make your decisions easier.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to find out how we can help you embrace 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 air conditioning technology. Call 954-736-4314 today to set up your appointment for work on your AC in Fort Lauderdale.