Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s an essential consideration for homeowners keen on saving money and who also want to support environmental sustainability. The introduction of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a big shift in how we look at cooling efficiency. These changes affect new HVAC installations as well as regular AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the intricacies of these changes and what impact they could have on you.
The Basics of SEER and SEER 2
SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the traditional metric employed to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the less the operating costs. SEER is determined by dividing the cooling output during a regular cooling season—measured in British thermal units, or BTUs—by the energy consumed in the process as measured in watt-hours. These statistics are created under specific test conditions to guarantee consistency.
SEER 2 is the next wave of AC efficiency ratings. It utilizes revised testing practices to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. As a result, you can expect that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be less than SEER ratings that do not have a "2", even though they reflect the same performance.
SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A corresponding cooling rating referred to as the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also shifting to a new standard called EER 2. Also, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that evaluates wintertime operation. It’s referred to as heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more rigorous testing criteria.
New SEER Rating Standards for 2023
All these changes may make you ask—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has created differing requirements for the Northern and Southern United States. Obviously, the South has stricter requirements because this region has to depend more heavily on cooling systems. Here’s what to know when purchasing a new air conditioner or heat pump:
- The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Northern states is 14 SEER, which translates to 13.4 SEER 2.
- The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Southern states is 15 SEER, which is equivalent to 14.3 SEER 2.
- The 2023 minimum EER rating only applies to air conditioners installed in Southwestern states. It’s 12.2 EER, which is the same as 11.7 EER 2.
- The 2023 minimum ratings for heat pumps apply nationwide. They are 15 SEER (14.3 SEER 2) and 8.8 HSPF (7.5 HSPF 2).
Why SEER 2 Matters for Homeowners
The change to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is essential for many reasons.
Cost Savings
The more precise measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units allow homeowners to make good decisions about new HVAC installations, possibly leading to reduced energy bills over the system’s life span.
Environmental Impact
Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating consume less energy. This decreases your home’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.
Regulatory Compliance
Complying with the new SEER rating standards and understanding the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Please remember, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that satisfies new testing standards.
In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioning systems can still be installed in 2023, just as long as they were made before January 1. However, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant AC units can be installed after January 1. If an installer breaches these regulations and is caught by the DOE, they are required to replace the non-compliant AC unit free of cost to the homeowner.
SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations
If you’re shopping for a new AC in 2023, you may see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be considered compliant, so long as it satisfies the regional minimum.
However, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only apply to systems acquired and installed after January 1, 2023. Existing systems installed before this date don’t need to be replaced if they still operate properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t burdened by unnecessary expenses but are still able to encourage future investments in more energy-efficient options.
Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with Broad Ripple Service Experts
Appreciating SEER 2 is about more than just learning a new technical concept. Rather, it’s about aligning your property with the changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more exact measurement to the table, affecting the way homeowners plan new HVAC installations.
Broad Ripple Service Experts is ahead of the curve when it concerns this new era of heating and cooling efficiency. Our devotion to excellence, professionalism and affordable financing sets us apart. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can plan your HVAC purchases and repairs with confidence. From teaching homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to doing SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in Indianapolis, the team at Broad Ripple Service Experts is here to help.
Reach out to Broad Ripple Service Experts to discover how we can help you adopt the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you create a more energy-efficient home personalized to your needs and aligned with the future of cooling system technology. Call 317-527-0271 today to get your appointment for AC service in Indianapolis.