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 promote environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a big shift in how we view cooling efficiency. Release of the new calculations affects new HVAC installations as well as ongoing AC maintenance and repairs. Discover the nuances 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 used to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning models. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the cheaper the operating expenses. SEER is computed by dividing the cooling output during a normal cooling season—measured in British thermal units, or BTUs—by the energy consumed in the process as measured in watt-hours. These calculations are created under special test conditions to ensure consistency.
SEER 2 is the next generation of AC efficiency ratings. It applies 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 lower, even though they reflect 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. Additionally, heat pumps have a heating-related rating for winter heating efficiency. It’s called heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more stringent testing criteria.
New SEER Rating Standards for 2023
All these changes may make you ask—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has set differing minimums for the Northern and Southern United States. Not surprisingly, the South has stricter requirements because this region has to depend more heavily on cooling systems. Here’s what consumers need to know when buying a new AC 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 important for several reasons.
Cost Savings
The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units empower homeowners to make informed decisions about new HVAC installations, potentially leading to reduced energy bills over the system’s life span.
Environmental Impact
Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating consume less energy. This reduces a building's carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.
Regulatory Compliance
Following the newly released 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 meets new testing standards.
In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, as long as they were produced 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 penalized by the DOE, they are required to replace the non-compliant AC unit free of cost to the homeowner.
SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations
If you’re shopping for a new AC in 2023, you might see SEER or SEER 2 ratings depicted on the tag. Either rating may be regarded as compliant, as long as it fulfills the regional minimum.
But, 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 prior to this date don’t need to be replaced if they still work properly. This exception ensures homeowners aren’t strained by more expenses but are still able to promote future investments in more energy-efficient options.
Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with Orangutan Home Services
Understanding SEER 2 is about more than just learning a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your property with the changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact measurement to the table, affecting the way homeowners approach new HVAC installations.
Orangutan Home Services is ahead of the curve when it concerns this new age of HVAC efficiency. Our dedication 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 providing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in Tempe, the team at Orangutan Home Services is here to help.
Reach out to Orangutan Home Services to discover how we can help you embrace the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you create a more energy-efficient home personalized to your needs and aligned with the future of cooling technology. Call 602-906-0111 today to set up your appointment for air conditioning service in Tempe.
