While shopping for AC systems or heat pumps, you’ll likely see mention of SEER ratings. But what exactly is this rating, and what qualifies as a good one? Understanding the basics of SEER ratings helps you make informed decisions that are beneficial for your Naples, FL home and budget.
What Is a SEER Rating?
A Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures how efficiently central air conditioners and heat pumps cool your home. The rating comes from calculations performed during lab testing. This takes into consideration the cooling output in British Thermal Units (BTUs). Measurements also include how much electricity a unit uses throughout a cooling season. This is measured in watt-hours. Dividing the BTUs by the total energy used determines the SEER rating.
Where Do I Find a SEER Rating?
You don’t need to calculate SEER rating of a brand-new unit yourself. Professional laboratory testing determines those ratings. You can get a unit’s SEER rating from its tag, an HVAC technician, or an online product description. However, it’s important to understand what the SEER rating means.
Is a Low or High Number a Good SEER Rating?
The higher the SEER number, the better. A higher number means the unit uses energy more efficiently. This efficiency can help lower your monthly utility bills. It can also lead to more savings in the long term.
What Is a Good SEER Rating?
An optimal SEER rating is one that is between 16 and 19. A good SEER2 rating is between 15 and 19. However, what qualifies as “good” is subjective. While the rating should play a part in the cooling system you choose, there are other important factors to consider. For example, you should also think about cooling needs and the local climate. Finding the right balance of factors can help you choose the perfect option for your home.
Do Appliances With Higher SEER Ratings Cost More?
Air conditioners and heat pumps with higher SEER ratings usually cost more upfront. The initial investment typically pays off in the long term. Improved energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills. However, long-term savings can vary depending on other factors like usage habits.
Do SEER Ratings Affect Energy Efficiency?
Yes, SEER ratings affect energy efficiency. A high SEER rating means the unit uses less energy to cool your home. In hot climates where air conditioners run frequently, this can save a significant amount of energy. It also helps you reduce your carbon footprint.
Are SEER Ratings the Same Across the United States?
SEER ratings are separated into three regions: north, southeast, and southwest. A SEER region map can help you determine what area you’re in and what an ideal SEER rating is.
Are SEER and SEER2 Ratings the Same Type?
SEER and SEER2 ratings aren’t the same thing. Any AC equipment or heat pumps installed after January 1, 2023, must meet SEER2 ratings. HVAC technicians can only install units that meet the current minimum requirements. The updated standards come from new laboratory testing methods.
Do SEER and SEER2 Ratings Equal Each Other?
In the southeast and southwest, the current SEER2 rating is 14.3 for heat pumps and residential central ACs below 45,000 BTUs. If the AC is at or above 45,000 BTUs, the SEER2 rating minimum is 13.8. These numbers differ from the SEER minimum of 15 for central ACs below 45,000 BTUs and heat pumps. If it’s at or above 45,000 BTUs, the central AC must meet a minimum 14.5 SEER rating.
In the north, the SEER2 numbers are 13.4 for central ACs above 45,000 BTUs and 14.3 for heat pumps. The number is the same for central ACs below 45,000 BTUs. Although the lower numbers may seem concerning, they result from more realistic testing, not lower efficiency.
What Are the Biggest Common Misconceptions About SEER Ratings?
Many people think that SEER ratings are the only important factor to consider when choosing a heat pump or central AC unit. SEER ratings are important to consider, but they’re not the only factor to think about. There are many others to consider, including the cost.
The size of a system is also crucial. Choosing an oversized unit can result in short cycling. This can strain the system, raise your utility bills, and lead to frequent repairs. Rather than short cycling, an undersized system will constantly run, which can raise your bills and cause damage.
Another misconception is that a high SEER rating guarantees you’ll save money on utility bills. It can help, but it’s certainly not the only factor. The local climate and how often you use your central AC or heat pump also matter. Scheduling professional maintenance appointments is also important. Our team can give you tips for how to cut utility costs in the long term.
Turn to our team when choosing a heat pump or central air conditioner with the best SEER rating. KOZAK Air Conditioning & Refrigeration in Naples provides high-quality AC installations to help keep your home cool through hot and humid summers.
Schedule an appointment with KOZAK Air Conditioning & Refrigeration today by booking services through our website or calling one of our helpful team members in Naples.
