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SEER ratings help you understand the efficiency of different cooling systems. They play a large role in choosing a setup that will lower your energy bills and improve indoor comfort. You don’t want to ignore these ratings because you’ll end up with higher costs and uneven cooling. To help you make the right choice, we’ve put together an in-depth guide covering how SEER ratings work, what’s required in Tennessee, how to compare systems and more.
SEER vs. SEER2
SEER measures how much cooling you get for the energy used. It’s a rating that has been in use since the 1970s. In 2023, the Department of Energy switched to SEER2. This version uses updated testing methods that better reflect real-world conditions, which provides a more accurate picture of performance. For example, the old SEER ratings were performed using very low external pressure, which isn’t realistic or typical for most homes. SEER2 uses a raised pressure to give a better estimate regarding how efficiently the cooling system can perform under everyday conditions.
How SEER Ratings Measure Cooling Efficiency
Ratios are at the heart of all SEER2 ratings. The calculation starts by taking the total cooling output for a normal cooling season and dividing it by the total input of electrical energy during that same period. The higher the number, the more efficient the system. For example, a system with a SEER2 rating of 16 is going to be more efficient than a unit with a rating of 13. It’s similar to miles per gallon in a car—the more cooling you get per watt, the better.
What’s the Minimum SEER2 Rating Allowed in Tennessee?
To keep your home cool in Tennessee, you’ll need a cooling system with a minimum SEER2 of 14.3; this applies to standard split systems under 45,000 BTU. For systems 45,000 BTU and above, the minimum is 13.8. If you try to use a system that doesn’t meet those rating requirements, your contractor won’t install it because it’s illegal.
Why SEER Ratings Matter for Tennessee Summers
Tennessee is well-known for its hot, stuffy weather in the summer. It’s very normal for the temperatures to stay above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for several months. All the extra humidity and warm air will put lots of strain on your air conditioner. As it tries to meet your cooling demands, it will run harder and for longer. Units with higher ratings will cool your home faster while using less energy without sacrificing your comfort.
Do Higher SEER Ratings Always Mean Better Performance?
Just because a cooling system has a higher SEER2 rating doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right one for your home. There’s a lot that goes into choosing the right setup. You must consider the SEER2 rating, your home’s square footage, its level of insulation, the condition of the ductwork and so much more. Setups with high SEER ratings won’t be of much help if you have holes in the ductwork or gaps in insulation. That’s why it’s so important to have a technician evaluate your home before choosing a unit.
Are Systems With Higher SEER Ratings Always More Expensive?
Systems with higher SEER ratings typically cost more than those with lower ratings. But this doesn’t mean you can’t save money by installing a new setup with a higher rating. Your monthly energy bills will be lower, which can make up for the higher upfront cost. Plus, since the system will run more efficiently and experience less wear, you won’t have to replace it as often. The savings can be enormous over the period of several years.
Tips for Comparing AC Units by SEER Rating
Are you ready to update your home with a new cooling system that has a higher SEER2? If so, here are some tips you can use to make the best choice for long-term comfort and efficiency.
Compare Units in the Same Category
First things first, you must compare apples to apples, meaning you need to evaluate systems of the same type in the same size range. For example, if you’re looking at the SEER2 rating of a central air conditioner, you must compare it to another central air conditioner. You don’t want to compare it to a ductless mini-split system because you’ll end up with inaccurate data, which will complicate the goal of choosing the most efficient unit.
Consider the Cost vs. Efficiency Tradeoff
Think about how long it will take for the energy savings to account for the higher upfront cost of the system. You don’t want a setup that takes over 15 to 20 years to pay off because the savings come too slowly. The system will already be ready for a replacement by that time. Instead, the savings should offset the initial investment within 5 to 10 years. This will result in a quicker return on investment and you’ll enjoy a more comfortable home thanks to better system performance.
Factor in Other Performance Features
The SEER2 rating is just one part of the equation for picking the right cooling system. A unit with a variable-speed compressor will adjust its output based on your home’s cooling needs. This can result in major savings on monthly energy bills. Units that sync with smart thermostats provide even more efficiency by giving you access to features like remote access and usage tracking. You can set schedules or geofencing so the system only runs when you actually need it to. If your home struggles with humidity problems, you’ll want a system with built-in moisture control. All of these features work together to optimize performance so you have the best cooling possible.
How to Read the EnergyGuide Label on a New Unit
An EnergyGuide label is standard on all brand-new HVAC units. It shows you the SEER2 rating of a unit and its estimated annual energy usage. Moreover, it offers a useful comparison to other systems in the same category. Some even provide a variety of SEER2 ratings according to the installation method. Checking the label on every unit you compare will help you make an informed decision and avoid overpaying for minimal efficiency gains.
Incentives and Rebates for High‑SEER Systems in Tennessee
There are a lot of electric companies in Tennessee that offer rebates and incentives to install energy-efficient HVAC units with qualifying SEER2 ratings. Federal tax credits may help offset the cost of installing an ENERGY STAR® model. Many of the credits range anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Talking with an experienced technician at A/C Plus Heating & Cooling is the best way to learn about the available programs and how to qualify.
When It’s Time to Upgrade Your HVAC for Better SEER
There are several signs that indicate it’s time to upgrade your cooling system with a higher efficiency model. A timely replacement is vital to saving money, improving indoor air quality and avoiding costly repairs.
Here are the top clues to watch for:
- System is over 10 years old
- Rising monthly energy bills
- Frequent repairs and breakdowns
- Uneven cooling throughout home
- Excessive humidity during summer
Our team can answer any questions you have about SEER ratings. We’re ready year-round to do AC replacements, tune-ups and repairs. Call A/C Plus Heating & Cooling to book professional AC installation services in Murfreesboro, TN.
