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 who are intent on saving money and who also want to promote environmental sustainability. The launch 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 ongoing AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the nuances of these changes and how they apply to you.

The Basics of SEER and SEER 2

SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the conventional metric used to calculate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning models. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the cheaper the operating charges.

SEER is calculated 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 calculations are done under special test conditions to establish consistency.

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

SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A corresponding cooling rating called the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also changing to a new standard called EER 2. Also, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that evaluates winter season performance. It’s named 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

All these changes probably will make you want to know—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has created differing minimums for the Northern and Southern United States. Obviously, the South has more stringent requirements because this region has to depend more heavily on air conditioning. Here’s what to know when shopping for 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 shift to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is crucial for several reasons.

Cost Savings

The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units allow homeowners to make educated decisions about new HVAC installations, possibly 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 your property’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Adhering to the new SEER rating standards and learning about 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 fulfills new testing requirements.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioners can still be installed in 2023, just as long as they were produced before January 1. But, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant AC units can be installed after January 1. If an installer breaches these regulations and is cited 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 thinking about buying a new AC in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be deemed compliant, as long as it fulfills the regional minimum.

But bear in mind, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only apply to systems acquired and installed after January 1, 2023. Current systems installed before this date don’t need to be replaced if they still function properly. This exception ensures homeowners aren’t strained by extra 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 being introduced to a new technical concept. Actually, it’s about aligning your property with the ever-changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact 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 era of HVAC efficiency. Our dedication to excellence, professionalism and wallet-friendly financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can move forward with confidence. From teaching 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 to make your decisions easier.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to find out how we can help you adopt the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you set up a more energy-efficient home personalized 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.

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