You see it everywhere, and every detailed description you hear about SEER rating relating to energy efficiency gives you more questions than you had before. Today we are going to break down the elements SEER – what it means, how its calculated, what savings it can lead to, and everything in between. Let’s start with defining what SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio/Rating) is – the ratio of heating or cooling output of a heater or ac unit respective to their seasons, divided by the energy it uses in Watt-Hours. It’s essentially how much work you are getting out of your unit per unit of electricity. Building on this, there is also a SEER2 rating, which is an updated version of this calculation that uses a new testing procedure and has for the most part replaced the original SEER rating on new units. Higher SEER rating is indicative of a more energy-efficient system.
How Is It Calculated?
We don’t want to bore you with too much math, but there is a formula to how its calculated. That simple division formula from above looks like this:
For the sake of this article, we won’t go that much further into other efficiency calculations. The BTUs refer to “British thermal units” – measuring heating capability. SEER rating for standard split systems can range from 13-25, with the higher end meaning more efficient. Similar to MPG, SEER is a measurement projecting ideal operating conditions. For example, bad ducting, wear & tear, or systems with dirt/debris will keep a unit from running at its measured rating. Units won’t always run at peak efficiency, but it is a good foundation to measure effectiveness of the unit. Depending on where you live and usage, certain SEER ratings would make more sense for you.
16 SEER rating for example, is better in areas you experience harsher temperatures or if your unit is always running because it will save you more the more that you use it.
What Rating Do I Need? How To Shop For It
As you can see from our graph, there is a diminishing returns on how much the efficiency improves each rating. Our area of southern California typically wouldn’t need anything higher than 16 for an average rate of use. As mentioned before, it is entirely dependent on how often you are using your machine and how hard it needs to work. Incrementally, they are about 10-15% increase from the previous rating at lower levels. This does not mean however, getting the highest efficiency rating will yield you linear savings. This is why we mention 16 at the most, but realistically 14-15 SEER will fulfill most needs of a SoCal client. Similar to computer speed these days, the lower end of the spectrum is plenty for the average local user. The opportunity cost for the amount saved during our heatwaves is typically not worth the cost difference.
Maintaining Your Unit
Remembering that SEER rating is a measurement of ideal working conditions is important, as it encourages your awareness of the unit’s health. Anything from clogs to poor ducting & bad parts can cause your unit to operate less effectively. Maintenance now comes into play, squeezing out the little bits of efficiency to save in the long run. HVAC extended maintenance is actually extremely beneficial when compared to service contracts from other industries. With HVAC units, the lifespan of the unit can be extended up to 50% with regular maintenance. That only adds to the impact the SEER rating would have over the course of a unit’s lifespan. A 10 year unit making it to 15 years would add greatly to the unit’s cost effectiveness. Check out our maintenance plans here
Updates To SEER Rating & Rebates
The minimum SEER (now SEER2) rating was shifted in 2023 from 13 to 14 in northern states, and from 14 to 15 in southern states. Due to the bigger need for air conditioning in southern states, SEER2 rating requirements are higher. Although it does measure heat output as well, the ability to cool is a bigger measurement of the SEER rating’s capabilities. There are incentives that the government provides for people looking to upgrade to higher SEER rated units. Homeowners can claim a 30% credit of the project cost if they are to install a new unit with 16 SEER Rating or greater. Factoring in the long term savings from having a 16 rated unit, the incentive is worth upgrading if you were considering purchasing somewhere around 15.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, making a decision on a new heater/ac unit can be tough. SEER rating gives us a quick snapshot of what we think will be a good fit four our living conditions. It helps with buying decisions, and it helps us plan for the future. As technology improves and the effectiveness of parts goes up, it is valuable to maximize the unit you have. Maintaining your unit, and getting a model that is futureproof will do you wonders in the long run. Take the information you learned today into your next HVAC purchasing experience. For your heating & cooling needs and installation, contact us at Omni Air HVAC: (714)813-0584. We are where top tier service meets budget friendly pricing, check out our reviews!