What Do SEER and SEER2 Stand For?
SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It can is also referred to as the Maximum Efficiency Rating.
SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. It is simply an updated version of the original SEER rating.
What Does SEER Mean?
SEER is a ratio which effectively communicates how much cooling, or heating, a unit can put out per Watt-Hour of electricity over the course of an average cooling season.
In simple terms, it tells you the maximum amount of cooling or heating you can do for the least amount of energy during a measured period of time.
What Does SEER2 Mean?
As mentioned earlier, SEER2 is an updated version of the original SEER ratio. Unlike SEER, SEER2 considers the total heat removed from a space over an average cooling season and uses a new M1 blower testing procedure.
The M1 test procedure used for SEER2 involves raising the A/C system's outside static pressure to five times the normal, which better reflects the actual conditions a system may be installed in.
Why Do SEER and SEER2 Matter?
To put it simply, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio matters because it plays a large role in dictating how much money you will spend to cool a space. Compared to A/C systems from a decade ago, which offer SEER ratings between 8 and 10, modern air conditioning systems typically offer SEER2 ratings between 13 and 21. This means that, on average, you can cool the same space for about 20% to 40% less in energy costs.
As time passes, the average SEER2 rating is expected to continue to rise as the U.S. Department of Energy constantly updates their efficiency requirements to save on energy consumption. That means that air conditioners will continue to become more efficient over and offer you larger savings on your electricity bill.
Where Can I Find My System's SEER2 Rating?
If you are looking to compare the SEER rating of your current system, but are not sure where to find it, you can check a few places for that information:
- Look at the paper attached to the air handler (indoor unit) of you A/C system. If you do not see a paper attached, check the stickers on the unit.
- Check the EnergyGuide sticker on the condenser (outside unit) of your A/C system.
- Call the customer service line of the manufacturer. Provide them with the model or serial number and they'll be able to give you that information.
- Visit the product page of the company who sold you that system and check the product description.
How Does a High SEER2 Rating Benefit Me?
1. Improved Energy Efficiency
The higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio your system has, the more efficient it will be when cooling and heating your space, under certain conditions. Since the unit is more efficient, it utilizes less energy and saves you more money.
2. Superior Indoor Comfort
A higher SEER2 means you'll be more comfortable all summer long. This is especially true for those of you who live in the Southwest and Southeast, where humidity is another culprit in your discomfort. These more efficient systems tend to have longer cycles that are constantly removing moisture from there. This not only makes the air cooler, but also helps you fight against mold and bacteria in your home. An additional benefit with a high SEER, or SEER2, system, is that you'll experience more even cooling in all parts of your home, something you will find difficult to achieve with lower SEER systems.
3. Lower Carbon Footprint
As we've mentioned, high SEER, or SEER2, systems tend to waste less energy, which is not only good for reducing your energy bill, but also for those who are environmentally conscious. Not only that, but these highly efficient systems will also typically use more eco-friendly refrigerants. This ultimately means that with a higher SEER2 system, you will be able to achieve the temperature comfort you want while also having a positive effect on the environment.
Things to Consider
Best Case Scenario
It's important to realize that your system's SEER2 rating is much like a car's fuel efficiency rating in that it represents only a maximum capability. This means that you may find a difference in performance from that which is advertised, depending on various factors. Like a car which is advertised to get 35 miles per gallon but really gives only 26 when driving in city traffic, your A/C may be rated with a SEER2 value of 17 but provide less because of increased static pressure, poor insulation, or a multitude of other reasons.
Budget
It is also important to consider your budget when looking at high SEER2 systems. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more expensive the system tends to be. Of course, these systems save you money on electricity, so it is important to conduct a cost-benefit analysis to see what is right for you.
There's More to It
Although having a high SEER2 system will help you save money on energy bills, it is also good to implement some energy saving habits to maximize your unit's efficiency and your total cost savings.
Additionally, you will want to consider other metrics like EER and EER2 ratings. We wrote an article discussing exactly what these are, why they matter, and how to use them to your advantage. We recommend you give that article a quick read, but to put it simply, EER and EER2 stand for Energy Efficiency Ratio and Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. They are similar to SEER and SEER2 in that they measure a units efficiency, but they differ in how they do so.
So What SEER Rating is Right For Me?
Regardless of your budget, opting for a system with a SEER rating of 13 or more is a great choice. Before making your decision, make sure to consider the size of your home, quality of the ductwork, and your insulation efficiency.
If you're looking for a high quality range of high SEER cooling and heating systems, make sure to browse MRCOOL's range of HVAC systems. Offering a wide selection of ducted and ductless systems, with varying SEER ratings, you'll be sure to find something that fits your needs.
