SEER2 Rating Explained
You may have seen the term “SEER2” while shopping for a new cooling unit. Many homeowners don’t know this rating’s intended purpose or how it relates to your AC system’s efficiency. This recently introduced ranking is an upgraded version of the classic SEER ratings.
As your go-to HVAC provider in the Longview area, Acme Air Conditioning & Heating wants to be sure you get the best out of your cooling systems. That requires knowing some ins and outs regarding your air conditioner’s SEER2 rating, which will help keep your home more energy-efficient.
What Does SEER2 Mean In HVAC?
SEER2 ratings refer to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. Its purpose is to accurately measure how efficient a cooling system is. You’ll know how well a cooling unit is favored by this system based on its number rating. These ratings can go as high as the 20s, but the minimum standard for residential ACs is 13.4.
This number helps to communicate how much energy the unit uses to provide cooling. A higher number means that a unit is more efficient — it requires less energy to do its job. Lower-rated systems have to use more energy to do what the higher ones are capable of.
So how is this rating decided? Manufacturers do so by testing the unit to see how much energy it uses compared to its cooling output over a period of time. The number is then presented to show how well the unit performs its job.
Why Do These Ratings Matter?
Summers here in Longview can be viciously humid, so it’s imperative that your air conditioner is up to the task. That’s where SEER2 ratings come in — a better rating will point you to the unit that will best protect you from the heat.
Whether you’re using an air conditioner or a heat pump, these ratings shouldn’t be neglected. Here are some benefits of having a higher rating on your unit:
- Temperature consistency provides adequate comfort, especially in bigger houses.
- Less energy usage helps you save on utility bills.
- Your environmental footprint is lowered with less energy waste.
- Efficient units can have longer lifespans.
- Higher-rated units tend to have advanced technologies, further tailoring your cooling experience.
When you’re in the middle of braving a fiery Texas summer, you don’t want an air conditioner that lets you down. The more you understand these energy efficiency ratings, the better prepared you are to maximize your at-home cooling.
How SEER Ratings Have Changed
The SEER system has been in use for years to measure cooling efficiency. The federal government has previously defined minimum required ratings for cooling units. For instance, systems were required to meet a rating of 13 in 2006 under the old SEER system. Changing these required ratings has helped maintain quality cooling systems on the market.
SEER2 is an advanced version of the SEER rating system and was first implemented in 2023. Ratings are more accurate due to better methods for testing a unit’s cooling potential. However, the calculating process is not much different. The current way cooling is measured warrants a change to how the numbers represent efficiency.
Common Misconceptions About SEER2 Ratings
Because SEER2 is a detailed system used on a large scale, it’s not uncommon for people to be confused about its usage. There are a great many misconceptions floating around about these ratings. Let’s clear up just a few examples:
- The highest ratings aren’t always the best for you — the top ratings are meant for large buildings, and your home won’t require so much capacity.
- Though higher-rated systems can cost more upfront, these units will repay you with reduced energy costs and fewer breakdowns.
- SEER2 ratings aren’t the only way to check a new cooling system’s efficiency. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which shows that a unit is energy-efficient.
- Air conditioners and heat pumps with high ratings don’t require less maintenance — every cooling unit needs regular maintenance to function efficiently year-round.
At Acme AC, our team is your trusted provider of HVAC services in Longview, TX. You can trust our skills and expertise to help you acquire a unit that fulfills your needs.
Schedule Your AC Service With Acme Air Conditioning & Heating
To get the most out of a good SEER2 rating, you’ll need a local ally to rely on for quality installation, maintenance and repair. Acme Air Conditioning & Heating is here to assist you, ready to meet all of your home’s cooling and heating needs. Contact us today for HVAC services that can’t be beaten!
