Your air conditioner is the cornerstone of your home comfort during the summer. As seasons change, you need your system to work effectively and efficiently to deliver efficient temperature control while balancing energy use.
This is where your unit’s SEER rating comes into play. Not sure what this is? No worries. Continue reading to get the breakdown on what this rating means, why it matters, and how it benefits your comfort and wallet.
What Is the SEER Rating?
A ‘SEER’ rating stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. In simplest terms, it rates how much energy and money it takes for an HVAC to run at optimal effectiveness.
The ratio is found by taking the output of the AC unit and dividing it over its average season. For example, a furnace’s average heating output over a heating season is divided by the total amount of energy used.
A high SEER rating shows that the unit is using less and less energy to provide optimal cooling—so the better the ratio, the more efficient the unit is.
Why SEER Rating Matters
Older AC units typically have a rating between 8 and 10, compared to newer units that have a rating between 13 and 21. Units with higher ratings can operate much more efficiently.
If you have an older unit, it pays to make the switch to one with a higher SEER rating. The upfront cost of the unit may be a hard sell, but the overall improvement to efficiency and energy savings can lower your utility bills.
SEER Rating Impact on Energy Costs
Older air conditioning units typically have much lower SEER ratings, indicating that they operate with significantly reduced efficiency when heating or cooling. As a result, they consume more energy and cost more to run, leading to subpar comfort levels.
What Is a Good SEER Rating?
What is considered “good” will always vary depending on your needs. A higher SEER rating model may come with a much higher upfront cost, but the energy efficiency leads to lower utility costs.
A good range is between 15 and 18—the lower end being better for homeowners looking for more affordability. The higher end is ideal for those looking for optimal efficiency. It all comes down to keeping a balance between your comfort and your budget.
What Is the Minimum SEER Rating?
The minimum SEER rating is the lowest ratio that a current AC unit is allowed to have.
As of 2023, the regional standard is that northern states have a 14 SEER, which is considered a “good” standard, while southern states have 15 as their standard. These ratings were originally 13 and 14, respectively, but changed due to a focus on reducing environmental effects while improving energy efficiency.
So, for example, if you are shopping around for a new AC unit in a state like Florida, you will not be able to find a unit with a lower minimum rating than 15.
Why Energy Ratings are Changing
The change in energy ratings comes from the Department of Energy’s implementation of new testing conditions and regulatory control. The change can be seen as the SEER terminology is now noted as “SEER2”.
By changing this, it can better reflect how a system your home AC operates with components like different air pressure. With better reflection, it means much better data on efficiency, leading us to even further advancement in maximizing HVAC efficiency.
How Does SEER Rating Affect Costs?
The effect on costs can be split between two categories: upfront cost and maintenance cost.
The upfront cost of a high SEER-rated AC unit will vary on the extent, availability of the unit, and your current location. For example, upgrading from a 14 SEER unit to a 16 SEER can cost anywhere between $900 and around $1,500. Going for even higher-rated models will increase the price.
The cost of maintenance and repair for high-rated SEER units will also be more expensive. Higher-rated models typically use more modern components to provide excellent energy efficiency. So, the price of replacing or repairing a part like a motor or compressor could cost well over $1,000—even more so if the SEER rating reaches high numbers like 21.
Is a High SEER AC Worth the Investment?
A high SEER-rated AC means improved efficiency, which in turn keeps the energy cost. So for homeowners who are willing to put up the higher upfront costs, these AC units are well worth the investment.
When shopping around, it is always best to consult HVAC experts. The team at Gulf Shore can help determine the best option for you.
We Offer Energy-Efficient AC Systems
When it comes to energy efficiency, Gulf Shore Cooling is your local HVAC company. Our experts use their years of experience to find the perfect unit for your cooling needs. Our AC installation process seamlessly integrates your brand new unit in no time flat, providing you swift cooling comfort with less utility cost.
Our services don’t stop after installation. Gulf Shore’s expert team keeps your unit running smoothly with comprehensive maintenance services for everything from the unit itself to your ductwork. From repairs to cleaning, we keep your system running like new.
Ready to Upgrade Your HVAC System? Contact Gulf Shore Cooling
Since 2000, Gulf Shore has been delivering high-quality cooling services across multiple communities, and we want to help you keep your home comfortable, efficient, and cost-effective.
Our HVAC experts assist in finding the best possible upgrade for your current system. We provide everything from installation to maintenance. With our team, experience a cooling system that truly feels like an upgrade. Contact our team at (239) 758-0496 or schedule an appointment online and experience a brand new cooling experience.
Looking for other expert HVAC services. Gulf Shore is here to assist with comprehensive services for a wide range of cooling systems, from traditional air conditioners to brand new mini-splits. Our team is also ready to keep your home’s air quality as clear as possible with installation and maintenance for systems like air filters.
SEER Rating FAQ
1) How much more efficient is an 18 SEER vs a 16 SEER?
An HVAC unit that has an 18 SEER rating is around 12.5% more efficient in providing heating and cooling than one with a 16 rating. A good way to look at this is that when you spend $200 to heat or cool your home, that 12.5% efficiency boost saves you around $16 each time.
2) How do I find the SEER rating on an AC unit?
The best way of finding your SEER rating on an AC unit is by:
- Look for a yellow and black EnergyGuide sticker that will be stuck onto the unit side
- Find the model number, which will typically have the rating, for example 14AC indicating a 14 SEER Rating
- A paper slip attached to areas of the HVAC system, such as the indoor unit
- Calling the manufacturer with the model and serial number of the HVAC unit
3) Can I upgrade my current AC’s SEER rating without replacing it?
No, unfortunately, you cannot directly improve the SEER rating of your AC. The rating is for the inherent efficiency of the unit itself, so modifications will not do anything. To keep your HVAC systems working at their best, it’s best to perform routine maintenance along with getting necessary repairs..
4) Are SEER ratings the same for heat pumps and air conditioners?
Yes, they are. The SEER rating measures the cooling efficiency that both air conditioners and heat pumps provide. The rating is not influenced by the heating capabilities of the heat pump.
5) Does SEER rating affect how quiet an AC unit is?
Yes, a higher-rated AC unit may have quieter operation due to the more modern design elements of the unit. Picking out a modern air conditioner, you’ll find that it’s built with components like smoother motors, which allow for better efficiency but reduced operation noise.
