What Is SEER2?

Just when you start to get a grasp on what a SEER rating is, version 2.0 comes out. What is SEER2 and why should you pay attention to it? Like its predecessor, SEER2 measures how energy-efficient an air conditioning system is. The SEER2 rating is stricter with updated testing processes, though. Find out how the two types compare and what you need to know about them.

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What Is SEER2?

SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, and it went into effect in January of 2023. It indicates how much heat the cooling system removes from the space throughout the cooling season, taking into consideration real-world conditions. Essentially, it tells you how efficiently the HVAC equipment will cool your home all season long.

To recreate that in a lab, testers change the static pressure to simulate the fluctuations in the weather and resistance from ductwork. That way, you get to see how well the unit will perform under less-than-ideal situations.

The goal is to see a high SEER2 rating. A system with a higher SEER2 number will take less energy to use than a system with a lower number.

How Is It Different From SEER?

The main difference between the SEER and SEER2 rating is how strict the guidelines are for the rating and how testing labs measure the performance. SEER relied on low, steady static pressure to get a measurement of energy efficiency. However, that's not realistic for most cooling situations. So the SEER2 testing takes place under higher static pressure to see how the equipment performs under those conditions.

If you were to compare the SEER to the SEER2 rating, the updated version would typically be lower. It's not that the system is less efficient than it once was. It's just a matter of measuring its performance under more taxing (and realistic) conditions. Cooling systems typically have to work harder in high-pressure situations, which naturally decreases the efficiency. SEER2 is a more accurate measurement of how a cooling system will perform.

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What Is a Good SEER2 Rating?

To meet ENERGY STAR requirements, an air conditioning system must have a 15.2 SEER2 rating or higher, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. A system with a SEER of 13.2 won't be as efficient. On the high end, a rating of 23.5 is one of the most efficient options available, but choosing a system that's 18.0 or above will maximize your power savings. However, those units will also be more expensive.

The minimum ratings also vary based on the region. Hotter, more humid climates require higher SEER2 numbers to handle the conditions there better.

The higher the SEER2 number, the more energy-efficient the system is. When selecting new equipment, it's often a matter of balancing the price and the efficiency rating. Highly efficient models typically come with a higher price tag, so you have to decide how much you're willing to pay and how much more one model would save you than another.

Why the SEER2 Rating Matters

As the consumer, the more rigorous standards of the SEER2 rating benefit you by giving you more accurate performance expectations. Instead of just seeing the outcome at peak efficiency, you catch a glimpse of the overall seasonal performance for the equipment you're considering.

The regulations also require higher ratings to meet various standards set by the government. You might also need a higher energy-efficiency rating to qualify for various rebates or tax breaks for your new equipment.

Not only do the more rigorous requirements save you money, but they also support the environment. Equipment that is more energy efficient reduces your greenhouse emissions.

Maximizing System Efficiency

Looking at the SEER2 efficiency standards and ratings is an important part of choosing a cost-effective system. However, other factors impact how efficiently your system runs. Poor insulation or faulty ductwork will decrease how well the system cools, which can force it to work harder. Proper installation is also necessary for the system to work as efficiently as possible. Work with a reputable HVAC company to find the ideal SEER2 rating in a system that's properly sized for your home to stay cool and lower your utility bills.