SEER2 officially takes effect on January 1, 2023, replacing SEER. It impacts the heat pump and AC units that you can buy and install.
If you’re considering a new system, it will affect your budget, too. A more efficient SEER2 unit may cost more upfront, but it may be worth it if you consider the long-term energy and efficiency savings.
How to choose a SEER2 unit for your home:
- Check first if it’s smart to replace or upgrade your existing unit.
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), all residential central air systems must have a SEER2 rating of 13.4 (14.0 SEER) in the North region, although units built before January 1, 2023, can still be sold and installed.
For consumers in other regions, getting a new air conditioner in 2023 may cost more. But a replacement or upgrade is worth considering if your unit is 10 years old and past its warranty period, or if it frequently breaks down despite regular maintenance. If running it costs more, it may be time to replace it with a more efficient unit.
Selling your home? A 14.3 SEER2 system makes it more appealing to potential buyers.
- Establish your budget.
In choosing a SEER2 unit, the unit price and installation costs are important factors to consider.
For your reference, installing a 15 SEER (or 14.3 SEER2) AC will cost between $4,000 and $6,000 on average. You’d pay less (around $3,500 to $5,000) to install a 13-14 SEER unit.
- Choose a unit that’s appropriate for the size of your space.
What makes an HVAC unit efficient? It’s not just SEER2. In fact focusing on SEER2 alone may cost you.
It’s also important to choose a SEER2 unit that’s the right size and BTU capacity. BTU is the amount of energy your unit consumes to remove heat from your home within an hour. The bigger the room, the more powerful your AC should be, and the higher the BTU rating required.
Getting a unit that’s too big for your space may result in high humidity, short cycling, and higher utility bills. It won’t last as long as right-sized units. On the other hand, a unit with too few BTUs may also create uneven temperatures, with hot spots that often get uncomfortable.
We help you choose the right SEER2 unit for your home
Do the upcoming SEER2 regulations and ratings confuse you a bit? When you book a Good Guy, we’ll make sure your HVAC unit is professionally installed, and compliant with the new SEER2 guidelines. We’ll also answer any questions you may have.
So if you’re looking to replace or upgrade your existing unit, our knowledgeable, experienced technicians can help you choose the right SEER2 AC or heat pump for your home. We’ve installed, maintained, repaired, and replaced HVAC systems for many years, so you won’t be taking any chances.
Book an appointment through the Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.
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