What Is The Difference Between 14 SEER And SEER2 AC Systems?

It’s no secret that air conditioning systems (AC Systems) have always impacted energy costs and the environment. That’s why The Department of Energy is always looking for new ways to improve AC System efficiency and hold HVAC companies to a higher standard.

The efficiency of AC units is currently measured by two standards, EER and SEER. However, in 2023 HVAC companies will face new challenges and changes that impact these two universal standards.

Here’s everything you need to know about SEER2 and the sunsetting of 14 SEER AC units.

What is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a measurement used to calculate your AC unit’s energy efficiency. SEER focuses on the seasonal aspect of the ratio.

You probably aren’t running your AC 24/7 at the highest possible setting, as warehouses and hospitals might be.

The SEER rating takes the weather and changing temperatures into consideration, looking at the efficiency of your unit during all seasonal changes.

To discover your AC unit’s seasonal efficiency, we measure the average EER during different temperatures and humidity levels. This is to gain a bigger picture of how well the AC works throughout the year. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient your unit is.

For years, SEER has been the industry standard for measuring energy efficiencies. The SEER rating scale has been around for years and has been used by manufacturers. However, there are some inconsistencies in the SEER rating scale that the US Department of Energy plans to address.

What is SEER2?

In 2023, AC units will receive a SEER2 rating instead of a SEER rating. These changes in the rating scale are designed to make up for deficiencies that the SEER rating system lacked.

The Department of Energy is raising the testing conditions for the total external static pressure. The SEER testing conditions do not accurately consider the influence of ductwork on external static pressure.

With the current SEER rating system, the external static pressure test doesn’t accurately represent how AC units are used in homes.

The US Department of Energy developed these standards to measure appliance efficiency and provide manufacturers with a guide to help them calculate the efficiency of the equipment they sell before they put them on the market.

Why does this matter?

The Department of Energy wants to make AC units more energy efficient. With this change from SEER to SEER2 will come changes for the consumer.

For starters, the minimum SEER rating for each region will change. The minimum SEER rating varies by location and is based on The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. This is the regulated standard SEER efficiency.

Here is a look at the minimum SEER for the following locations as of 2022:

• Northern states: 13 SEER
• Southern and southeastern states: 14 SEER
• Southwestern states: 14 SEER

As we transition to the SEER2 rating scale, these numbers will change. However, the SEER2 numbers are lower than the current SEER rating.

For example, in the Southeastern states, a minimum SEER2 rating of 14.3 will be required, which equals 15 SEER.

This means that 14 SEER AC units will be phased out, and new air conditioners will inevitably be more expensive. This is because it will cost manufacturers more to produce more efficient systems. However, switching to an efficient cooling system will help you save on energy costs.

What is happening with 14 SEER?

AC units with a 14 SEER rating are getting decommissioned. Since 14 SEER no longer meets the industry standard for most locations, you won’t be able to buy 14 SEER air conditioning systems after January 1, 2023.

If your AC System breaks down, you likely wouldn’t be able to replace your unit with anything less than a 14 SEER. However, you will have an opportunity to invest in an efficient cooling system that pushes out reliable cooler air and helps you save on energy costs.

What happens if your current AC is lower than 14 SEER?

Don’t panic. Furthermore, the changes taking effect in 2023 specifically apply to new AC units that are being installed. Therefore, if you currently have an AC unit with 14 SEER or lower, you won’t be forced to replace your unit.

This is why you must contact Scott’s Air before the end of the year to get a more affordable system.

However, you should consider your central air conditioner for a more efficient cooling system in the future. According to the United States Energy Information Administration, the move from SEER to SEER2 will help save $2.5 to $12.5 billion on energy bills in the first 30 years.

Upgrading your AC unit with Scotts Air

Contact Scott’s Air today to learn more about AC System efficiency ratings or if you’re ready to invest in a new AC unit before the end of the year (2022) and save money before time runs out.  The experts at Scott’s Air can help you make the best choice for your home.

Scott’s Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service heating and air conditioning company and a Bryant® Factory Authorized Dealer in Central Florida. Whether you need repair, maintenance, or installation of a new heating or cooling system, we provide efficient, cost-effective, and professional service. When it’s hot, call Scott!

Categorised in: Air Conditioning, Thing You Should Know