What Is SEER2 and How Does It Affect Me?
New SEER ratings will soon be in effect, and homeowners throughout Florida should know how these changes will impact them. At Greens Energy Services, our team can help you determine which systems best suit your needs. We offer a wide range of energy-efficient products that will save you money and reduce your long-term cost of ownership.
Understanding SEER Ratings
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, more commonly known as SEER ratings, is an indicator assigned by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that identifies the energy efficiency of your HVAC systems. When you purchase an air conditioner, furnace, heat pump, etc., you will almost always see this number prominently displayed on the label.
The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit. In Florida, most homeowners have systems with SEER ratings between 10 and 20, with most newer systems rating at the higher end of this scale. SEER ratings are established by the DOE and are periodically updated to determine optimal energy efficiency.
The DOE makes these determinations after reviewing existing technologies, up-to-date testing procedures, and HVAC system requirements. Based on the results of these evaluations, they determine whether any changes would further benefit the environment and help homeowners reduce their energy usage and monthly utility bills.
What Is SEER 15?
SEER 15 is the most current regulation update that establishes the required energy efficiency for residential air conditioning units. Beginning in 2023, homeowners who want to replace their old air conditioner with a new unit must choose a system with a minimum SEER rating of 15.
It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean you must replace an existing unit, but it does mean that when you do, you’ll have to select a system with a minimum rating of SEER 15.
Beyond Air Conditioners
Energy efficiency ratings are also placed on heat pumps and furnaces. The updated DOE regulations require that heat pumps have an 8.8 Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), increasing from the current 8.2 HSPF. Furnace efficiency has also been increased from 80% to 81% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).
Again, it’s important to remember that homeowners are not required to replace existing systems to meet these requirements but will need to do so when replacement becomes necessary.
The Advantages of Better Efficiency
There are many advantages to choosing an energy-efficient air conditioner, furnace, ductless mini-split, or heat pump. The greater the energy efficiency, the more valuable the benefit, including:
- Lower utility bills: Units with a higher energy efficiency rating will reduce your utility bills by as much as 50% every month. Over time, the utility savings more than offset the investment.
- Lower initial cost: Higher-efficiency systems cost more to purchase but can cost less when you factor in available state and federal credits or rebates.
- Improved environment: Clear skies and clean water are part of what makes Florida such a great place to live. Energy-efficient HVAC systems generate fewer emissions and require less energy. This translates to a cleaner, healthier environment.
- Greater humidity control: High-efficiency ductless mini-splits, central air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, and other HVAC systems operate at lower pressures. They also have longer operating cycles, which combine to minimize moisture and make it easier to control indoor humidity.
Call 407-917-3759 to learn more about the most up-to-date energy efficiency standards and discover which systems we recommend for homeowners in Florida.
