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If 2025 is the year to get your new air conditioning system, you have a lot of options out there to choose from. One common recommendation that you’ll find online is to purchase a unit with a high SEER rating. Below, we’ll discuss what SEER is and how it can help you determine the appropriate cooling system for your household.
What is SEER?
SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It’s actually the old rating standard for air conditioning systems that has been replaced with the newer SEER2 rating standard as of January 2023. SEER2 is basically an upgraded and more accurate rating system to determine how a potential air conditioner replacement will perform under real-world conditions in a household environment.
All air conditioning systems are given a SEER2 rating based on their testing performance. Those with a higher rating are more energy-efficient, meaning they use less energy and provide more energy savings for homeowners. Currently, the government has set minimum SEER2 standards that all home air conditioning systems must meet to be installed.
Their recommendations are broken down into northern, southern, and southwestern regions. Those in the northern region of the country must have a unit with a SEER2 rating of 14 at the bare minimum. Those in the southern and southwestern areas must have a unit with a minimum SEER2 rating of 15. Heat pumps have a nationwide minimum of 14.3 SEER2.
Different System SEER2 Ratings
It’s very important to note that the type of air conditioning system you choose will greatly impact the available SEER2 ratings. Central air conditioners come in three efficiency levels: standard, mid-range, and high. Standard units have a SEER2 of 13.4 to 14.3. Mid-range systems have a SEER2 between 15 and 17, while high-efficiency systems have a SEER2 between 18 and 21 or higher.
Heat pumps also come in these three efficiency standards. Standard models have a SEER2 of 14.3, mid-range 15 to 17, and high-efficiency models range from 18 to 22 and above. Ductless mini-splits have a standard SEER2 between 16 and 18, mid-range models are between 20 and 30, and high-efficiency models range from 35 and above.
It’s crucial to note that not all AC system types make sense for every application. For example, while ductless mini-splits have the highest efficiency ratings available, they’re also the most expensive. If you already have ducting in your home, it’s more cost-effective to go with a central air conditioner that offers a lower efficiency rating.
Efficient Tech Features
Various tech innovations are making units more energy-efficient than ever before. One of the most notable is the variable-speed compressor. This technology is common in your high-efficiency models, as it comes at a premium price.
The beauty of variable-speed technology, also known as inverter technology, is that it allows your system to operate at partial capacity to save energy while still providing a comfortable home environment. Standard units can only operate at full capacity. Variable-speed units can operate at varying capacities, such as 50, 75, or even 80%.
Some units even come with electronically commutated blower motors or ECMs. These devices allow the unit to precisely control its fan speed based on your temperature needs at the time. This technology can reduce your energy usage by 75% compared to traditional blower motors.
Being able to control the temperature in different areas of your home can increase your comfort and lead to less energy usage over time. Ductless mini-splits naturally have zone temperature control with their multiple indoor air handlers. However, zoned technology can be integrated into standard central air conditioning systems.
New Refrigerants
One advantage of upgrading your air conditioner in 2025 is that you get to take advantage of the natural efficiency boost that newer refrigerants offer. Outdated R-22 and R-410A refrigerants don’t offer the same heat transfer capabilities. Newer AL2 refrigerants, like R-32 and R-454B, are more efficient at transferring heat. This means they’ll use less energy to adequately cool your home compared to systems that use one of the other outdated refrigerants.
Ultimately Determining Your Needs
Determining the best SEER2 rating for your new unit really depends on many factors, like your home’s existing infrastructure and your budget. While saving on cooling bills is nice, spending a ton of money on a high-efficiency unit may not be feasible for your budget or even necessary.
Many homeowners upgrading from an outdated air conditioning system that’s over a decade old will naturally see a stark decrease in their annual cooling bills, just because of the new technology enhancing efficiency in standard AC units. Having a new unit that meets the federal minimum standards may be all you need if you’re budget-conscious and looking to enhance your general comfort during the summer months.
If you’re okay with investing a little more money upfront to cash in on long-term energy savings, then choosing a mid-grade efficiency level can be the best choice. These are typically ENERGY STAR-certified, making you eligible to receive a tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. These mid-grade models are perfect for households that use their air conditioners often and want to save a little on their cooling bills throughout the year.
Homeowners who are overly conscious about their energy usage and those who live in overly hot climates may want to consider the premium cost of upgrading to a high-efficiency unit. These offer the most energy savings, the best humidity control, and ultra-quiet system operation. These systems qualify for the highest tax credits of the bunch.
A Note on Heat Pumps and Mini-Splits
Both heat pumps and mini-splits offer cooling and heating capabilities for all-year-round comfort. If your existing heating system is getting up there in age, you may want to consider one of these systems. They do come at a higher upfront cost than traditional central air conditioners, but you won’t have to endure the cost of a new heating system either.
Other Factors to Consider
There are many factors you’ll want to consider when selecting the appropriate SEER2 rating for your next air conditioning system. If you plan on selling in the next five years, it’s unlikely you’ll recoup the higher upfront cost of a high-efficiency model. You may want to opt for a standard or mid-grade efficiency unit that’s more budget-friendly.
If you have a larger home, you’ll see more energy savings than in a smaller home. If your home is already well-insulated, it may not be necessary to get a high-efficiency model. However, if your home lacks proper insulation, a high-efficiency unit may be just what you need to ultimately lower your summertime cooling bills.
If your existing ductwork is over 15 years old, it likely has leaks and gaps. You may not be able to realize the energy savings you’ll hope for without fixing your ductwork first. Some other key considerations include warranty coverage, brand, tax credit eligibility, operational noise level, and maintenance requirements.
Reliable AC Installation Service
Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric provides reliable AC services for the Los Angeles, CA area. We can help with all your AC replacement, repair, and maintenance needs. Simply call our office staff today to book your next service appointment with one of our experienced HVAC technicians.
