Understanding SEER2: How Much Do Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners Save?

Home cooling is one of the most significant expenses you'll face each year, so energy efficiency is something to weigh heavily when buying a new air conditioner. A new high-efficiency air conditioner can save you hundreds of dollars in the long term, even if the SEER2 rating is only a few points higher than your old unit.

Ready to save on running costs and reduce your environmental impact? Our guide to SEER2 ratings will help you understand:

• What is SEER2 and how is it measured?
• The cost benefits of high-efficiency air conditioners
• Comparing SEER2 ratings: 15 vs. 16 SEER2 and beyond
• Long-term savings and environmental impact
• Choosing the right high-efficiency AC for your home

After reading, you'll be set to make the right investment to keep your home cool while lowering your carbon footprint.

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What Is SEER2 and How Is It Measured?

SEER2 ratings measure how effectively your AC converts energy into cooling over an average season by dividing total cooling output by the energy used. A higher SEER2 rating reflects a more environmentally friendly HVAC system.

Look at a SEER2 rating savings chart to see the difference for yourself. These provide a quick rundown on how average energy costs change with each increase in the SEER2 rating, helping you understand how much you could save by upgrading your outdated HVAC system.

Understanding SEER vs. SEER2

You may have seen both SEER and SEER2 ratings. They both measure the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps, but SEER2 was introduced in 2023 by the U.S. Department of Energy and provides a more accurate representation of real-world performance. SEER was based on ideal lab conditions, while SEER2 better reflects actual home environments, so SEER2 ratings are about 4.5% lower than SEER for the same system, even though efficiency remains unchanged.

The Cost Benefits of High-Efficiency Air Conditioners

Wondering how SEER2 savings stack up? While initial costs can be higher when upgrading to a high-efficiency AC, even a few points difference in the SEER2 rating dramatically affects your energy bills and can save hundreds of dollars on lifetime running costs.

Arizona and many other states also offer considerable rebates and tax credits that help make a new HVAC system more attractive. For example, the 25C tax credit provides a 30% credit on installation costs of up to $600 for new air conditioners.

Comparing SEER2 Ratings: 15 vs. 16 SEER2 and Beyond

While installation costs can be higher when upgrading to a high-efficiency AC, Arizona's need for extended AC use throughout the year compounds the potential savings. Comparing energy savings between 15 and 16 SEER2, for example, you stand to save about 6% on annual running costs, cutting $167 off your energy bills over 15 years.

The SEER2 rating savings are even better when gaining at least a few more points over your old system. You can save about 42% when switching from a 14 SEER unit to a modern 20 SEER2 system. Over 15 years, this cuts $1,158 from running costs, helping you squeeze exceptional value out of your new AC.

Of course, you always need to weigh potential savings against replacement costs. If your system is still relatively young or you don't run it often, it may be better to wait until it reaches the end of its lifespan before considering a high-efficiency replacement.

Long-Term Savings and Environmental Impact

Air conditioners produce about 3% of total carbon emissions worldwide, and AC demand is set to triple in the United States and most other countries by 2050. Choosing a high-efficiency AC helps reduce this impact.

High-efficiency air conditioners are also often more advanced in general. They may feature more durable casing and coils or have smart thermostats to better manage energy use and overall performance. This makes them ideal choices if you want to minimize your environmental impact without sacrificing comfort.

Choosing the Right High-Efficiency AC for Your Home

Air conditioners work overtime in Arizona, so units with SEER2 ratings of 16 or higher are often best to minimize running costs. Upgrading to a higher SEER2 rating often costs more upfront, but you can save over time with rebates, tax credits, and energy savings.

Ultimately, it's always best to consult a professional before deciding on an AC. An HVAC technician will help you choose a system that's ideal for your home and fits your budget, installing it correctly to maximize its performance. From there, regular maintenance will keep costs as low as possible.

Work with Mint Home to Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC

Mint Home can provide a quick and easy online quote, simplifying the AC buying process. You give us some info about your home and needs, and we provide several pricing options, show you potential savings, and offer special financing to make upgrading to an energy-efficient AC easier.

Once you select the AC that’s right for you, you’re able to schedule an installation time that works for your family. Then, our technicians show up on time to get the job done in a timely manner and show you how the new unit works. That’s it! Mint Home provides the AC buying experience that keeps you, the customer, at the heart of it.

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