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 promote environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a significant shift in how we look at cooling efficiency. The release of these new ratings affects new HVAC installations as well as regular 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 standard metric used to evaluate the cooling efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the cheaper the operating costs.

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 done under precise test conditions to establish consistency.

SEER 2 is the next generation of AC efficiency ratings. It utilizes revised 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 less than SEER ratings that do not have a “2”, even though they evaluate 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 changing to a new standard called EER 2. And, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that applies to cold weather heating efficiency. It’s named heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more exacting testing requirements.

New SEER Rating Standards for 2023

These kinds of changes may make you wonder—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has created specific standards for the Northern and Southern United States. Needless to say, the South has more stringent requirements because this region relies more heavily on air conditioning. 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 transition to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is vital for several reasons.

Cost Savings

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

Environmental Impact

Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating use lower energy. This decreases your home’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Complying with the latest SEER rating standards and understanding the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Be aware, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that fulfills new testing requirements.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 ACs can still be installed in 2023, just as long as they were produced before January 1. But, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioners can be installed after January 1. If an installer violates these regulations and is cited by the DOE, they must replace the non-compliant AC unit with no cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re shopping for a new air conditioning system in 2023, you may see SEER or SEER 2 ratings depicted on the tag. Either rating may be considered compliant, so long as it fulfills the regional minimum.

But, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only pertain to systems purchased and installed after January 1, 2023. Existing systems installed earlier than this date don’t need to be replaced if they still work properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t burdened 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. Instead, it’s about aligning your residence with the 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 concerns this new age of HVAC efficiency. Our commitment to excellence, professionalism and wallet-friendly financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can proceed 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 to make your decisions easier.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to learn how we can help you adapt to the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you create a more energy-efficient home tailored to your needs and aligned with the future of HVAC technology. Call 954-736-4314 today to schedule your appointment for AC service in Fort Lauderdale.