Understanding the Difference Between SEER and SEER2

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, most commonly shortened to SEER, has been a standard for comparison in the heating and cooling industry since 1992 when a minimum SEER rating of 10 was put in place through legislation in the United States. Since that time, the minimum SEER rating has been raised several times to ensure that consumers receive the most efficient HVAC equipment for their homes and businesses. In 2023, SEER2 requirements will go into effect and will differ according to the region in which the new HVAC equipment will be installed.

How SEER Requirements Work

The energy efficiency requirements outlined in SEER apply to all new installations of HVAC systems after the date on which the new SEER requirements become effective. This means that systems installed before the SEER standards were updated will still be available for use. However, any new systems that are installed after the SEER requirements go into effect must meet the updated standards. Regular maintenance can sometimes allow you to extend the life of your current system.

SEER2 represents the first time that different standards have been implemented for different regions of the country. This takes into account the differing climates that prevail in various locations and ensures the most efficient HVAC equipment for each area. North Carolina is part of the Southeast Region for purposes of SEER compliance.

SEER2 for the Southeast Region

In North Carolina and the rest of the SEER2 Southeast Region, specific requirements have been instituted for HVAC systems installed on or after January 1, 2023. These include the following:

• For split system air conditioners in the Southeast Region, new installations under 45,000 BTU are required to have a rating of 14.3 under SEER2 and 15.0 under SEER.
• Systems 45,000 BTU or larger must have a rating of 13.8, which is equivalent to 14.5 SEER.
• Under the new requirements, heat pumps throughout all regions in the United States must have a rating of 14.3. This is equivalent to 15.0 in the old SEER ratings.

The friendly and knowledgeable HVAC experts at Total Heating & Cooling, Inc. can offer the best heating and cooling options for Greensboro, North Carolina, and the surrounding communities. If you have questions about the new SEER2 requirements or would like to check out our current HVAC specials, give our team a call today. We are here to help when you need us most.