If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner or heat pump, you may have noticed the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER rating. This number is a measure of how energy efficient your cooling system is. The SEER rating takes into account both the cooling capacity of the unit and its annual energy use efficiency.
The SEER value is an important factor to consider when choosing an air conditioning unit or heat pump. Older domestic air conditioning units in the US may have a SEER rating of 10 or less, while today’s high-efficiency residential equipment can boast SEER values of 25 or more. Choosing a unit with a higher SEER value can lead to significant energy savings for homeowners. Higher SEER units typically cost less to run and can help reduce energy expenditures. Learn more about SEER Ratings & Savings!
Before the adoption of the SEER rating, cooling equipment was rated based on how much energy it consumed when operating at maximum efficiency in a controlled environment. This method was similar to testing a car’s fuel economy while accelerating it to 100 mph on rollers in a climate-controlled facility. However, these test results didn’t necessarily reflect the unit’s typical efficiency in real-world conditions. The SEER rating is a more accurate measure of the energy efficiency of your air conditioning unit or heat pump.
In order to give consumers a more accurate depiction of the typical energy use of an air conditioner or heat pump in cooling mode, the SEER rating was created. The SEER rating considers a number of significant aspects, including:
- Climate zones
- Part-load efficiency
- Energy consumption in standby mode
- Varying load requirements
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) sets energy efficiency requirements for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, including air conditioners and heat pumps. In 2006, the DOE increased the minimum SEER requirement from 10 to 13 nationwide to encourage energy savings for consumers. In 2015, the DOE raised the minimum SEER standard again, specifically for heat pumps and central air conditioners installed in certain U.S. regions. Currently, the minimum SEER rating for central air conditioners and heat pumps is 14 in the South and Southwest regions, and 13 in the North.
If you live in a region where your air conditioner sees a lot of use, such as the South or Southwest, investing in an energy-efficient air conditioner or heat pump can help reduce your energy bills even further. On the other hand, if you live in a more temperate region where cooling isn’t needed year-round, a lower SEER rating may make more financial sense. By understanding the minimum SEER standards and your climate, you can make an informed decision when choosing an air conditioning unit or heat pump for your home.