In the world of HVAC, efficiency is a paramount concern for both homeowners and businesses. One of the critical metrics used to gauge this efficiency is SEER rating, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Recently, a federal efficiency mandate has changed the rating system from SEER to SEER2 and we have many customers asking us what the difference is. So, we thought we would share!
What is SEER 2?
SEER 2 is an updated version of the traditional SEER rating system. The SEER rating system measures the cooling output of an air conditioning or heat pump system over a typical cooling season, divided by the energy it consumes in Watt-Hours. SEER 2 follows the same principle but with enhanced testing protocols and more stringent standards to provide a more accurate representation of an HVAC system’s energy efficiency in real-world conditions.
In layman’s terms, the SEER rating system tests an air conditioning system or heat pump presuming it was installed in ideal conditions with a perfectly designed duct system, whereas the SEER 2 rating system tests a system under more real world conditions, not presuming a perfectly designed duct system.
How Does SEER 2 Differ From SEER
Updated Testing Conditions: As mentioned above, SEER 2 ratings are based on updated testing procedures that reflect more realistic operating conditions. This means that SEER 2 provides a more accurate measure of how an HVAC system will perform in actual use, rather than in ideal laboratory settings. As such, a 13.4 SEER2 rated system is actually more efficient than a 13 SEER rated system, even though the efficiency measures look almost identical (about 7% less utility usage).
Higher Efficiency Standards: With SEER 2, the efficiency benchmarks have been raised. This change encourages manufacturers to develop more energy-efficient systems, ultimately benefiting consumers with lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
Manufacturing Changes: The introduction of SEER 2 required manufacturing changes that have resulted in increased costs of equipment and in some cases availability issues.
Why SEER 2 Matters
Energy Savings: A higher SEER 2 rating means greater energy efficiency, which translates to cost savings on utility bills.
Environmental Impact: HVAC systems account for a significant portion of energy consumption in buildings. By improving efficiency, SEER 2 rated systems help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the overall carbon footprint of buildings. This is a crucial step towards combating climate change.
Incentives and Rebates: Many utility companies and government programs offer incentives and rebates for installing high-efficiency HVAC systems. Systems with high SEER 2 ratings are often eligible for these programs, making them a more attractive option for consumers looking to upgrade their HVAC systems.
Future-Proofing: As energy efficiency standards continue to evolve, investing in a SEER 2 rated system ensures that your HVAC setup remains compliant with future regulations. This can protect homeowners and businesses from the need for costly upgrades down the line.
Choosing the Right SEER 2 System
When selecting an HVAC system, it’s essential to consider the SEER 2 rating along with other factors such as the size of the space, climate, budget, and specific heating and cooling needs. At BDL Heating & Cooling, our experienced technicians are experts and are ready to answer your questions and help you choose an HVAC system that’s right for you. Call us today at (508) 643-5114 to get started.
