The way HVAC systems are tested is about to change. Starting January 1, 2023, all new residential central AC systems sold in the US must meet new minimum energy efficiency standards.
Developed in 2016 by the Department of Energy (DOE), SEER2 will replace SEER next year.
SEER vs SEER2
SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It determines how efficient your AC is. Your unit’s SEER ratings can be found in its cabinet or user’s manual.
Good SEER values for home air conditioners are 14-16. Currently, your unit should be at least 14.5 SEER to meet the ENERGY STAR specifications of the Department of Energy.
To calculate SEER ratings, divide the cooling output during the summer season by the energy used. The higher the SEER, the less electricity your system consumes.
SEER2, on the other hand, is an updated version of this calculation. It’s using the new M1 blower testing procedure, which represents real-world conditions more accurately.
The minimum equipment efficiency ratings for the SEER2 update
DOE has divided the US into three different regions, with the same requirements for each region.
- North (National) Region
According to DOE: all residential central air systems must have a SEER2 rating of 13.4 (14.0 SEER).
- Southwest Region
A SEER2 rating of 14.3 (15.0 SEER) is required for residential central air systems below 45,000 Btu. Systems 45,000 Btu and above must have a SEER2 rating of 13.8 (or 14.5 SEER).
- Southeast Region
Residential central air systems below 45,000 Btu must have a SEER2 rating of 14.3 (15.0 SEER), while systems 45,000 Btu and above must have a SEER2 rating of 13.8 (14.5 SEER).
How SEER2 Impacts Your Next AC Replacement
SEER2 isn’t going to impact homeowners with fairly new AC units, or whose air conditioner is working just fine.
However, current units that don’t meet the SEER2 standards can’t be installed after January 1, 2023 (except in the North region, where AC units built before January 1, 2023, can still be sold/installed).
Therefore, waiting until after January 1st means having to spend more on AC replacement.
For your reference, a 15 SEER (or 14.3 SEER2) AC unit typically costs between $4,000 and $6,000, depending on the size and brand, while 13-14 SEER units cost around $3,000 to $5,000 on average.
So if you’re considering replacing your air conditioner anytime soon, now is the best time to schedule a replacement, before low-cost AC options go away for good.
As Regulations Change, We Got You Covered
We provide custom heating and cooling solutions for a safe, comfortable home, all year round.
Book a Good Guy and we’ll make sure your AC is properly installed, meeting the new standards for 2023.
Our knowledgeable, experienced technicians can turn your home into an oasis of comfort, with your unique needs and budget in mind.
Schedule your appointment through our exclusive Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.
