The Difference Between SEER & SEER2 Ratings

If you’re shopping for a new air conditioner or heat pump, you’ve probably encountered SEER and SEER2 ratings. These numbers are key to understanding how energy-efficient a system is, but what’s the real difference between them?

SEER has been the standard for years, measuring efficiency under ideal conditions. SEER2, however, is the upgraded version, designed to reflect real-world performance by accounting for system cycling and airflow resistance.

Why does this matter? Choosing the right rating means investing in a system that delivers the energy savings you expect, keeping your home cool and your energy bills low.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures how efficiently an air conditioning unit or heat pump cools your home over an entire season; it’s calculated by dividing the total cooling output by the total energy consumed, with higher SEER ratings indicating superior efficiency.

Simply put: A system with an 18 SEER rating uses less energy than one rated 14 while delivering the same cooling performance. Note, however, that SEER ratings are based on ideal lab conditions, which may not reflect real-world performance. Factors like outdoor temperatures and system cycling can affect actual efficiency, which is where SEER2 ratings come in handy.

Comparing SEER & SEER2

The biggest difference between SEER and SEER2 is how the ratings are tested, and SEER2 provides a more accurate reflection of a system’s real-world energy efficiency. SEER ratings may measure peak performance in ideal conditions, but SEER2 introduces new testing procedures that account for the challenges HVAC systems face in day-to-day use.

Here’s what makes SEER2 stand out:

• SEER2 includes the impact of system cycling (when HVAC systems turn on and off repeatedly, they lose energy during the startup phase). SEER2 testing measures these “cycling losses” to provide a more realistic efficiency rating.
• Real-world airflow resistance gets factored in as SEER2 testing simulates actual airflow conditions that systems face in homes. This makes SEER2 ratings more reliable for understanding how your system will perform.
• SEER2 ratings adjust for efficiency loss, which means that a 14 SEER2 unit will operate more efficiently than a 14 SEER unit under the same conditions. This is because SEER2 testing reflects the energy loss that SEER does not.

Other Factors To Consider for Efficiency

SEER and SEER2 ratings are important, but other factors will affect your HVAC system performance:

• Proper system sizing: A system that’s too large for your home will cycle on and off too often, wasting energy and reducing efficiency. Choosing the right size means the system runs optimally.
• High-quality installation: Installation mistakes, such as leaky ducts or incorrect refrigerant levels, can cause even the most efficient system to underperform. Professional installation guarantees top-tier performance.
• Routine maintenance: Dirt, blockages, and wear can decrease efficiency over time. Regular tune-ups keep your system clean and operating smoothly.
• Smart thermostats: Programmable and Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats improve efficiency by optimizing system operation based on your schedule. Features like automatic temperature adjustments can further reduce energy use.
• Home efficiency improvements: Sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and blocking heat with shades or window films can reduce the strain on your HVAC system and improve overall performance.
• Ductwork: Poorly insulated or leaky ducts can lose cool air before it reaches your living spaces. Properly sealed ducts improve air delivery and system efficiency.
• Fan settings: Adjusting fan speeds based on cooling demands helps the system operate efficiently and quietly, with higher speeds reserved for the hottest days.

Schedule Your Consultation With National in Cincinnati

When it’s time to replace your HVAC system, trust the experts at National Heating and Air Conditioning, backed by over 90 years of proven experience. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to service all brands, ensuring your home gets the right system for maximum comfort and efficiency. With free estimates on replacements, we make upgrading easy and transparent, so you can focus on the benefits of your new system.

Schedule your consultation today and discover the National difference.