What is SEER Rating?
Are you in the market for a new air conditioner or heat pump? If so, you may have noticed a "SEER" rating, indicating how energy efficient an appliance is. In this guide, we'll examine the SEER meaning and examine the following factors:
By selecting the right SEER2 rating, you can improve everything from home comfort to energy savings.
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What Is SEER and Why It Matters
SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, measures how efficiently your AC or heat pump cools your home over a season. It's calculated by dividing the total cooling output (in BTUs) by the total energy consumption (in watt-hours). The higher an appliance's SEER2 rating, the more efficient it is.
Over time, a high SEER2 rating leads to lower monthly bills and improved cooling performance. It also reduces environmental impact, which makes highly rated appliances eligible for rebates and tax credits.
SEER vs. SEER2: What Changed and Why It Matters
If you've recently looked for a new AC or heat pump in Arizona, you may have noticed a "SEER2" rating. Introduced in 2023, SEER2 is an updated testing standard with more realistic operating conditions. More specifically, it factors in higher external static pressure, which simulates an average home's actual ductwork resistance.
SEER2 systems are required for all new installations in Arizona because they have more realistic efficiency ratings. They also follow a different rating system, with SEER2 ratings slightly lower than their SEER equivalent. For example, a 16 SEER system is equal to a 15.2 SEER2. Therefore, you should take this difference into account when comparing systems.
14 SEER vs. 16 SEER: What’s the Difference for Arizona Homeowners?
SEER2 ratings are measured by a number, with higher numbers reflecting increased efficiency. Before 2023, the minimum recommended rating in Arizona was 14 SEER. However, that minimum has since increased to 15 SEER2 (or almost 16 SEER).
Compared to 14 SEER, 16 SEER (15.2 SEER2) is more expensive to install. In exchange for the higher upfront cost, it offers lower monthly energy bills, increased long-term savings, and more consistent cooling. It's also eligible for rebates and tax incentives. So, if you have an older system, upgrading to 16 SEER (15.2 SEER2) can help save money and improve comfort.
Minimum SEER2 Requirements (Southwest Region)
As mentioned above, the minimum SEER2 rating in 2024 for the Southwest region is 15 SEER (14.3 SEER2). This means that new AC installations must meet this minimum, while older SEER-rated systems no longer fulfill Arizona's cooling standards.
So, why is a high SEER rating necessary? For starters, this requirement helps ensure that all new air conditioners are capable of handling Arizona's intense summer heat. It also lowers carbon footprints and helps homeowners cut down costs. When purchasing a new AC, you should always make sure that it has a SEER2 rating (not just SEER).
Choosing the Right SEER2 Rating for Your Arizona Home
While some homeowners are satisfied with the minimum SEER rating, others choose to pay extra for a higher rating. To select the best appliance for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Budget. Highly rated appliances cost more upfront but offer increased monthly savings. Consider which option works better for your budget.
- Energy usage. If you frequently run your AC system, you'll benefit more from a high SEER rating.
- Insulation and ductwork. Poorly insulated homes may need higher SEER2 ratings to compensate for air loss.
- Longevity. Do you plan to live in your home for a long time? If so, a highly rated system will keep you comfortable for years to come.
- Potential rebates. Qualifying SEER2 models are often eligible for local utility rebates, which help bring down costs.
For many Arizona homeowners, the high temperatures and heavy usage make high SEER2 systems a worthy investment.
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