When summer arrives, having a working air conditioner becomes critical for safety and comfort. While you might consider many factors when buying a new system, the SEER rating is one of the most important. F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Cheshire, CT wants to help you understand how SEER and SEER2 ratings impact an air conditioner’s efficiency.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The SEER rating measures how efficiently an air conditioner cools your home in the summer. Higher SEER ratings mean an air conditioner delivers consistent comfort using less electricity.
The HVAC industry calculates SEER ratings by dividing the total cooling output by the total energy consumed in the season. SEER ratings give you a standardized rating for comparing various air conditioner models.
What Changed With SEER2 Ratings?
SEER2 officially took effect in January of 2023. The US Department of Energy implemented the SEER rating change to ensure accuracy in energy-efficiency measurement. These changes required manufacturers to redesign and retest their systems to meet the new standards.
Traditional SEER ratings used data gathered under ideal lab conditions. SEER2 ratings focus more on real-world performance. The new SEER rating accounts for external static pressure and the resistance your HVAC system’s ductwork and fittings create.
For instance, an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 16 under the old system may rate 15.3 on the SEER2 scale. The system may not have changed, but the testing method did, resulting in a new rating.
Why Do SEER2 Ratings Matter for New Air Conditioners?
SEER2 ratings now determine the efficiency of new air conditioners. They determine which air conditioners are legal to sell in your region.
For instance, new systems in Connecticut must have a SEER2 rating of at least 13.4. Choosing a high-efficiency system offers the following benefits.
- Decreased electricity costs
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Improved comfort and indoor air quality
- Overall home value increase
We consider several factors when helping our customers choose a new air conditioner. Proper calculations involve home size, layout, usage, insulation, and windows. Our expert HVAC technicians can help you select the most cost-effective air conditioner model.
What Is Considered a Good SEER Rating?
The higher the SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency. The most efficient air conditioners have SEER ratings of 26+. Here is a breakdown of SEER ratings:
- 14.3 SEER2 (Entry-level efficiency)
- 16 – 17 SEER2 (Balanced cost with long-term savings)
- 18+ SEER2 (Maximum efficiency for heavy usage)
Most Connecticut homeowners will find a SEER2 rating between 15 and 17 offers the best value. We can help you determine your expected annual usage and return on investment to make a wise choice. The goal is to increase your savings without compromising your comfort.
What Is the Average SEER Rating for Air Conditioners?
Many older air conditioners have SEER ratings of 10 to 13. These outdated units are significantly less efficient than modern systems. The average SEER rating is around 16, with premium systems going over 21.
Selecting the right SEER rating is more than looking at a single number. It is about matching a system’s efficiency with your home’s energy demands.
Why Replacing an Old AC Makes Financial Sense
If your air conditioner is older than 10 years old, upgrading can cut your cooling costs by as much as 40%, according to the US Department of Energy. New systems offer much more than efficiency, including:
- Quieter operation
- Better humidity control
- Fewer repairs
- Compatibility with smart thermostats
Going Beyond the Label
SEER ratings are important, but they do not tell the entire story. Many things impact your air conditioner’s performance, even air leaks. F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers home energy audits to find sources of wasted energy. We recommend scheduling a home energy audit before installing a new air conditioner.
We will look for inefficiencies, make recommendations, and ensure you choose the right air conditioner for your home. We check for the following:
- Duct leaks
- Attic and wall insulation
- Air sealing and airflow
Taking these steps will help ensure your new air conditioner works as efficiently as possible for long-term savings. Our goal is to help you save as much money as possible.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
Replacing your old air conditioner with a high-efficiency model is much more than simply swapping systems. You need the proper system size, airflow adjustments, and refrigerant charging, which can impact your air conditioner’s performance and lifespan.
Our HVAC technicians use industry standards and local building codes. We ensure your system matches your home’s square footage. Our technicians work to secure proper airflow balance in every room.
We also take the time to answer your questions and explain your air conditioner options. Our team will walk you through your projected energy savings before we proceed with installation.
Ask These Questions Before You Replace Your AC
Before installing a new air conditioning system, it pays to ask questions. Taking time to approach the process carefully can help you make a wise decision.
What Is My Current System’s SEER Rating?
Your older air conditioner may only have a SEER rating of 10 or 11. We can determine the SEER rating by getting your model number and checking it with the national database. Identifying your current SEER rating is the first step in calculating potential savings.
How Much Will I Save with a Higher SEER Rating?
Upgrading to a SEER2 rating of 16 or higher could significantly reduce your cooling costs. Your savings depend on home size, AC usage, and local electricity rates. We can help you understand your potential savings.
Does My Home Need Ductwork Repairs or Insulation?
The most efficient air conditioner will not perform at its best if you have ductwork and insulation problems. Duct sealing, air sealing, and insulation can ensure you reap the expected savings from your new AC installation.
Is My New Air Conditioner Smart Thermostat Compatible?
Pairing your high-efficiency air conditioner with a smart thermostat increases its efficiency even further. Many new air conditioner models work well with Wi-Fi thermostats, allowing you to control your system remotely.
Our technicians at F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can help you with answers to the above questions and more. Knowing you have addressed any potential problems and getting answers to your questions offers peace of mind.
Plan Your Air Conditioner Upgrade With Confidence
Although SEER ratings give insight into a new air conditioner’s efficiency, they are only a single piece of the puzzle. We must dig deeper to help you choose the most efficient system for your Cheshire home. Relying on our expert advice can significantly impact your overall savings.
F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is a family-owned and operated HVAC company that offers many services, including AC installation, maintenance, and repairs. We also perform home energy audits, insulation installation, and Aeroseal duct sealing. Our team can help you install an air conditioner that offers performance, comfort, and savings.
Contact our HVAC technicians at F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to schedule a home energy audit or seek a personalized quote in Cheshire.
