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 keen on saving money and who also want to help improve environmental sustainability. The introduction of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a significant 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. 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 traditional metric employed to evaluate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the less the operating costs.

SEER is determined 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 statistics are done under precise test conditions to guarantee consistency.

SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It utilizes 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 lower, even though they assess the same performance.

SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A comparable 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 evaluates wintertime heating efficiency. It’s named heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more rigorous testing standards.

New SEER Rating Standards for 2023

All these changes could make you ask—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has created differing requirements for the Northern and Southern United States. Needless to say, the South has more stringent requirements because this region depends more heavily on AC units. Here’s what to know when buying 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 switch 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 enable homeowners to make good decisions about new HVAC installations, potentially leading to reduced energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

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

Regulatory Compliance

Adhering to the latest 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 standards.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, just as long as they were manufactured before January 1. Having said that, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioners can be installed after January 1. If an installer ignores these regulations and is caught by the DOE, they are required to replace the non-compliant AC unit with no cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioner in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be regarded as compliant, as long as it meets the regional minimum.

However, it’s very important to note that the new SEER rating standards only relate to systems bought and installed after January 1, 2023. Any HVAC systems installed earlier than this date don’t need to be replaced if they still operate properly. This exception ensures homeowners aren’t weighed down by unnecessary 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

Understanding SEER 2 is about more than just grasping a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your residence with the ever-changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more precise measurement to the table, impacting the way homeowners approach new HVAC installations.

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is ahead of the curve when it relates to this new age of HVAC efficiency. Our commitment to excellence, professionalism and affordable financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can move forward with confidence. From educating 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 for you.

Get in touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to discover how we can help you adopt the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you develop a more energy-efficient home tailored to your needs and aligned with the future of cooling technology. Call 954-736-4314 today to set up your appointment for work on your AC in Fort Lauderdale.