When shopping for a new air conditioner or heat pump, you will frequently hear about SEER and SEER2 ratings. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures how efficiently a cooling system operates over an entire cooling season. Understanding these ratings helps you choose an energy-efficient system that lowers long-term electricity bills.
What Is SEER2?
SEER2 is the updated rating system introduced by the U.S. Department of Energy to evaluate cooling equipment efficiency under realistic operating conditions. It accounts for higher external static pressure in ductwork, providing a more accurate real-world efficiency measurement than older SEER ratings.
Minimum Efficiency Standards
Modern regulations require new residential cooling equipment to meet higher minimum efficiency standards:
Northern Region: Minimum 13.4 SEER2 (14 SEER equivalent)
Southern & Southwestern Regions: Minimum 14.3 SEER2 (15 SEER equivalent)
Benefits of High SEER2 Systems
Lower Monthly Bills: Higher ratings mean less electrical power consumed to cool your home.
Enhanced Comfort: High-SEER2 units often feature variable-speed compressors that regulate temperature and humidity more effectively.
Utility Rebates: Many local energy companies offer cash rebates for installing high-efficiency equipment.