SEER vs SEER2: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters for Your AC

Key Takeaways:

• SEER2 replaced SEER in 2023 to give homeowners a more realistic look at how efficient their AC really is once installed.
• Higher SEER2 ratings can mean lower energy bills, especially in warmer climates where your system runs often.
• Minimum SEER2 requirements depend on your region -Upgrading from a 14.3 SEER2 to a 16 SEER2 system might seem small on paper, but it can lead to long-term savings
• Smart thermostats, clean filters, and regular maintenance all help your system run closer to its rated efficiency.
• Tax credits and rebates may help cover the cost of a high-efficiency upgrade, don’t leave money on the table.

If you’re thinking about replacing your air conditioner, you’ve likely come across the terms SEER and SEER2. These ratings are used to measure energy efficiency, and directly impact how much you spend on energy when cooling your home. With SEER2 being the new standard measurement, it’s important to understand the difference and what to look for when researching new AC systems.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.” This ratio tells you how efficiently your air conditioner operates over a normal cooling season. The higher the number means the more efficient the system is.
For example:

• A 13 SEER system is considered outdated by today’s standards in most regions.
• A 15 or 16 SEER system is more in line with modern efficiency levels.
• Higher ratings offer more energy savings over time.

Many homeowners look up SEER rating calculators or charts to understand the potential SEER rating savings between systems. A basic rule of thumb is: the higher the SEER, the lower your energy bills, especially in warmer climates.

SEER2 vs SEER

Starting in 2023, SEER2 replaced SEER as the national efficiency standard. SEER2 uses updated testing procedures that more accurately reflect how systems perform once installed in real homes; not just in a lab. Here are the key differences between SEER vs SEER2:

• SEER was based on ideal testing conditions
• SEER2 accounts for external factors like ductwork resistance and realworld airflow

Because of the testing differences, SEER2 ratings are slightly lower than SEER and give a more accurate depiction of the everyday system efficiency. So if you’re comparing SEER vs SEER2, a 15 SEER2 unit is more efficient than a 15 SEER rating unit tested under the older method.

What Is a “Good” SEER2 Rating?

A good rating for one home might not be ideal for another. Factors like the climate, how often the AC is ran, and how long you plan to stay in your home can influence your home’s ideal SEER2 rating. In general:

• A 14.3 SEER2 is a strong starting point for most homes.
• Higher ratings can lead to better long-term savings, especially in hotter climates.

If you’re looking at mini split SEER ratings you’ll often see higher SEER rating since ductless setups are typically more efficient.

Why Did SEER Change in the First Place?

Older SEER ratings didn’t tell the full story. They were based on near-perfect lab conditions, which most homes don’t have. Things like leaky ducts, hot attics, and dusty filters can all affect how your AC actually runs. That’s where SEER2 comes in. It’s a newer, more realistic way to measure how efficient a system really is once it’s installed and working in the real world.

Minimum SEER2 Ratings Vary by Region

Depending on where you live, the required SEER2 rating changes. In hot areas like the Southwest and Southeast, systems need to meet at least 14.3 SEER2. Up north, the minimum is a bit lower, 13.4. If you're not sure what applies to your home, a local installer (like Mint Home!) can guide you.

Does a Higher SEER2 Really Save You Money? Yes, especially over time. A 16 SEER2 unit will usually use noticeably less electricity than a 14.3 SEER2 one. If your AC runs a lot, that difference can show up in your monthly bills pretty quickly. It’s one of those cases where spending a little more upfront can actually pay off down the line.

Easy Ways to Get the Most Out of Your AC

• First, make sure your system is the right size for your space. (Our instant quote calculator can help you determine the right size for your home)
• Keep your filters clean and change them regularly.
• If you can, install a smart thermostat, it can fine-tune your usage without much effort.
• Try not to skip maintenance. A quick check-up each year goes a long way.
  
  ####Don't Forget Rebates and Tax Credits You might be able to get a federal tax credit (up to $600!) if you install a qualifying high-efficiency unit. Depending on where you live, there might be other rebates available too. The Department of Energy’s site is a good place to start.
  
  
  ####How to Find Your Current AC’s SEER Rating Most systems display their rating on the yellow EnergyGuide label on the outside of the unit. If it’s missing or unreadable you can also:
• Check your unit’s model number and look it up online
• Look at your system’s user manual or paperwork
• Ask your HVAC technician

It’s common for homeowners to wonder how to find the SEER rating on an AC unit because it is not always listed in obvious places. Likely, if your unit is older than 10 years, you will find that the systems available today have higher SEER ratings.

What About EER Ratings?

While SEER measures seasonal performance, EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures a system’s efficiency at one set temperature. It’s commonly used to gauge performance during extreme heat. An excellent EER or EER2 rating is typically around 12 or higher. When evaluating AC units, typically, the SEER2 rating is more important; however, if you live in a hot and dry climate the EER rating can provide a bigger picture of the unit's peak performance potential.

Choosing Your Home’s Perfect AC System

If you’re comparing options or just want a better understanding of what’s installed inside of your home, knowing the difference between SEER vs SEER2 matters. SEER2 is the current standard, and the rating helps homeowners make informed decisions when upgrading their cooling systems. If you are not sure which system is right for your space, Mint Home is happy to help. Just provide a few details about your home's size and layout to get an instant quote– we'll help you find the top-rated system that fits your comfort needs.