What's the difference between SEER and SEER2?

SEER2 replaced SEER as the official efficiency rating in January 2023. SEER2 uses higher static pressure in testing (0.5 inches H2O vs 0.1), reflecting real ducted installations more accurately. A SEER 16 unit is roughly equivalent to SEER2 15.2.

SEER2 Savings · Free Tool

SEER2 Savings
Calculator

See how much money you'll save upgrading to a higher-efficiency AC. Calculates 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year energy savings based on your actual electric rate.

Current SEER (or SEER2)

Check the yellow EnergyGuide sticker on the outdoor unit

New SEER2 Rating

SEER2 14.3 is the new minimum (Southern US)

System Tonnage

Annual Cooling Hours

Electric Rate ($/kWh)

From your latest electric bill. US average is $0.17/kWh

Upgrade Cost ($)

Price difference vs. minimum-SEER replacement

Annual SavingsPayback period —

$— / year

5-Year Savings—

10-Year Savings—

15-Year Savings—

Current Annual Cost—

New Annual Cost—

% Reduction—

Is the savings calculation realistic?

This estimate uses typical cooling hours by climate zone and your actual electric rate. Real-world savings vary based on thermostat settings, ductwork condition, refrigerant charge, and weather. Most homeowners see 80-110% of estimated savings.

When does upgrading to higher SEER2 not pay off?

If you're in a cool climate (fewer than 700 annual cooling hours), have very low electric rates (<$0.10/kWh), or live in your home less than 5 more years, the higher upfront cost of SEER2 17+ may not return investment. SEER2 14.3-15.2 is usually the sweet spot.

What about IRA tax credits and rebates?

The Inflation Reduction Act offers up to $2,000 federal tax credit (25C) for heat pumps meeting CEE Tier 2 (SEER2 16+, EER2 12+, HSPF2 9+). Many states stack additional rebates of $4,000-8,000. Factor these into your payback calculation.

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SEER2 Savings
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$— / year

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