What is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a measure of how efficient an air conditioner is at cooling a home over the course of an entire cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner.
SEER ratings are calculated by dividing the total cooling output of an air conditioner by the total amount of energy it uses over a typical cooling season. The cooling output is measured in British thermal units (BTUs), and the energy use is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) sets minimum SEER requirements for air conditioners sold in the United States. The minimum SEER requirements vary by climate zone. For example, in the northern United States, the minimum SEER requirement is 13. In the southern United States, the minimum SEER requirement is 14.
Air conditioners with higher SEER ratings use less energy to cool a home, which can save you money on your energy bills. For example, an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 15 uses about 20% less energy than an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 13.
If you are considering buying a new air conditioner, it is a good idea to choose an air conditioner with a high SEER rating. This will help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact.
What is SEER 2 and How is it Different from the old SEER
SEER 2 is the new Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) standard for HVAC systems that went into effect on January 1, 2023. The new standard increases the minimum SEER requirements for HVAC systems by 1 SEER for all regions, for both AC units and heat pumps. This includes central air conditioners, as well as split systems like ductless mini splits.
The new SEER2 standard was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in an effort to improve the energy efficiency of HVAC systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new standard is expected to save consumers an average of $130 per year on their energy bills.
To meet the new SEER2 standard, HVAC manufacturers must use more efficient components and design their systems more carefully. The new standard also requires HVAC systems to be tested under more realistic conditions, which will help to ensure that they are actually as efficient as they are claimed to be.
If you are considering buying a new HVAC system, it is important to make sure that it meets the new SEER2 standard. This will help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your environmental impact.
Here are some tips for choosing an HVAC system that meets the SEER2 standard:
- Look for a system that has a SEER rating of at least 13 for central air conditioners and 14 for heat pumps.
- Ask the HVAC contractor about the efficiency of the system they are recommending.
- Make sure the system is tested and certified by a reputable organization.
- Consider buying a system with a higher SEER rating if you live in a hot climate.
By following these tips, you can be sure to choose an HVAC system that meets the SEER2 standard and helps you save money on your energy bills.
Majestic AC and the New SEER system
As always, Majestic AC is on the forefront of the HVAC industry. We have implemented SEER 2 in our informational material we give to our customers. Our Comfort Consultants and technicians are well versed in how SEER 2 affects home air conditioning systems and will give you the information you need to make the best decision for you and your family in regards to their comfort.
If you are in the market for a new AC system, now is a great time to take advantage of rebates and attractive financing offers. You can invest in a high-efficiency HVAC system that meets the SEER 2 standards that will provide comfort in your home for years to come as well as save money on energy bills.
Contact Majestic AC today for an absolutely free estimate on replacing your HVAC system. Call us at (281) 376-2224 or visit our contact us page.