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 who want to save money and who also want to help improve environmental sustainability. The introduction of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a substantial shift in how we view cooling efficiency. Release of the new calculations affects new HVAC installations as well as routine AC maintenance and repairs. Discover the nuances 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 used to evaluate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning models. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the less the operating expenditures.

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 statistics are created under specific test conditions to ensure consistency.

SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It utilizes revised testing processes to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Because of this, you can expect that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be smaller, even though they evaluate 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 for winter season heating efficiency. It’s named heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more rigorous testing requirements.

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 created 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 you should 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 change to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is vital for a number of reasons.

Cost Savings

The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units allow homeowners to make good decisions about new HVAC installations, likely leading to lower energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

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

Regulatory Compliance

Complying with the newly released SEER rating standards and knowing 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 meets new testing guidelines.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, as long as they were made before January 1. But, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioning systems can be installed after January 1. If an installer ignores these regulations and is caught by the DOE, they need to replace the non-compliant AC unit at no cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioner in 2023, you may see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be deemed compliant, so long as it fulfills 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. Any HVAC systems installed prior to this date don’t need to be replaced if they still work properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t weighed down 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 grasping a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your property with the evolving 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 concerns this new period of home comfort efficiency. Our devotion to excellence, professionalism and wallet-friendly financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can proceed with confidence. From instructing homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to offering SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in Fort Lauderdale, the team at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.

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 develop a more energy-efficient home tailored to your needs and aligned with the future of cooling system technology. Call 954-736-4314 today to set up your appointment for work on your AC in Fort Lauderdale.