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Understanding the New SEER 2 Rating and Why It Matters

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s an essential consideration for homeowners keen on saving money and who also want to help improve environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a big shift in how we look at cooling efficiency. These changes affect new HVAC installations as well as regular AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the intricacies of these changes and what impact they could have on you.

The Basics of SEER and SEER 2

SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the traditional metric utilized to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the less the operating expenses. 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 computations are done under precise test conditions to establish consistency.

SEER 2 is the next era of AC efficiency ratings. It applies modified testing processes to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. As a result, you should be prepared to see 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 known as the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also moving to a new standard called EER 2. And, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that evaluates winter heating efficiency. It’s referred to as 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 could 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. Obviously, the South has tighter requirements because this region relies more heavily on cooling systems. Here’s what consumers need to know when buying a new air conditioning unit 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 switch to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is crucial for many reasons.

Cost Savings

The more accurate measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units enable homeowners to make good decisions about new HVAC installations, possibly leading to diminished energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

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

Regulatory Compliance

Complying with the newly released 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 meets new testing requirements.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, so long as they were made 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 ignores these regulations and is caught by the DOE, they have 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 AC in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings depicted on the tag. Either rating may be considered compliant, so long as it meets the regional minimum.

But bear in mind, it’s vital to note that the new SEER rating standards only pertain to systems bought and installed after January 1, 2023. Existing systems installed before this date don’t need to be replaced if they still work properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t burdened by unnecessary expenses but are still able to promote future investments in more energy-efficient options.

Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air

Appreciating SEER 2 is about more than just learning a new technical concept. Actually, it’s about aligning your home with the evolving landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact measurement to the table, impacting the way homeowners think about new HVAC installations.

Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air is ahead of the curve when it concerns this latest 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 teaching homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to providing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in San Antonio, the team at Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air is here for you.

Reach out to Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air to learn how we can help you adopt 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 210-404-4233 today to schedule your appointment for air conditioning service in San Antonio.