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 keen on saving money and who also want to support environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a significant shift in how we view cooling efficiency. These changes affect new HVAC installations as well as ongoing AC maintenance and repairs. Lets learn more about 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 conventional metric utilized to evaluate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the cheaper the operating costs.

SEER is determined 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 calculations are done under special test conditions to ensure consistency.

SEER 2 is the next generation of AC efficiency ratings. It uses amended testing methods to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. As a result, you can expect 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 comparable cooling rating known as the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also moving to a new standard called EER 2. Also, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that applies to winter operation. It’s called 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 set differing standards for the Northern and Southern United States. Not surprisingly, the South has more stringent requirements because this region depends more heavily on AC units. Here’s what consumers need to know when buying a new air conditioning system 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 essential for a number of reasons.

Cost Savings

The more exact measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units enable homeowners to make informed 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 a reduced amount of energy. This minimizes a building’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Following the newly released 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 satisfies new testing guidelines.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 ACs can still be installed in 2023, as long as they were produced before January 1. Having said that, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioning systems can be installed after January 1. If an installer breaches these regulations and is cited by the DOE, they have to replace the non-compliant AC unit free of cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioning system in 2023, you might see SEER or SEER 2 ratings indicated on the tag. Either rating may be considered compliant, if it satisfies the regional minimum.

But bear in mind, 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 earlier than this date don’t need to be replaced if they still function properly. This exception ensures 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 Fras-Air/General Service Experts

Comprehending SEER 2 is about more than just learning a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your residence with the changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more precise measurement to the table, influencing the way homeowners plan new HVAC installations.

Fras-Air/General Service Experts is ahead of the curve when it concerns this new period of home comfort efficiency. Our devotion to excellence, professionalism and budget-friendly 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 Hillsborough, the team at Fras-Air/General Service Experts is here to help.

Get in touch with Fras-Air/General Service Experts to discover how we can help you embrace the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you develop a more energy-efficient home personalized to your needs and aligned with the future of air conditioning technology. Call 908-448-2154 today to set up your appointment for air conditioning service in Hillsborough.