Shopping around for a new air conditioner or heat pump can feel like learning a new language. It’s easy to get overwhelmed between all of the tech specs and energy ratings.
You’ve probably seen SEER ratings, but what do those numbers actually mean? If you’re shopping for a new system, it’s worth knowing because that one number can tell you a lot about how much energy your system will use and how much it might cost to run.
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an air conditioning system or heat pump cools your home throughout a typical season. More specifically, SEER compares your system’s cooling to the energy it uses to do the job.
Think of it like miles per gallon but for your AC. A higher SEER means your system uses less energy to keep you cool, which usually translates into lower utility bills.
How the SEER Scale Works
Most modern systems fall between SEER 13 and SEER 25, though the scale can go higher with advanced or variable-speed systems. The U.S. Department of Energy has minimum SEER requirements based on region. For example, here in the Midwest, the minimum standard is typically SEER 14 for central air systems.
Some older systems—especially those in place for a decade or more—carry SEER ratings as low as 8 or 10. On paper, that may not seem drastic, but the gap between an outdated unit and a newer model adds up quickly in terms of energy use. By the time summer ends, you’ll likely feel the difference in your utility bill.
Why SEER Ratings Matter
Most people focus on efficiency—and that’s important—but SEER ratings also influence how your system performs day to day, how much you’ll spend (or save) over the long haul, and even how your home is valued.
- Lower Energy Bills: Upgrading from a SEER 10 unit to a SEER 16 system can reduce your cooling costs by up to 40%. That’s money back in your pocket every month.
- More Even Cooling: High-SEER systems tend to be newer, with better technology for managing temperature and humidity across your home.
- Smaller Carbon Footprint: More efficient systems use less energy, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions—mainly if your local grid relies on fossil fuels.
- Stronger Resale Appeal: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers. A high-SEER system may boost your home’s value or help it stand out in a competitive market.
Is a Higher SEER Always Better?
Not necessarily. While it’s true that higher-SEER systems are more efficient, the most expensive unit on the shelf isn’t always the smartest buy. The right SEER for your home depends on several factors:
- Your Climate: A higher SEER makes more sense in warmer regions because the system runs more often. Here in Minnesota, where summers are hot but short, you might not benefit as much from jumping to SEER 20 or higher.
- Your Usage Patterns: If you work from home and run the AC all day, efficiency matters more than if you only cool the house at night or on weekends.
- Your Budget: Higher-SEER systems often come with a higher price tag. In many cases, a mid-range unit (SEER 15–17) offers a great balance of efficiency and affordability.
- Your Insulation: Even the highest-rated system will struggle if your home leaks air like a sieve. Sometimes, sealing up the house is the best place to start.
What Else Should You Look For?
SEER is important, but it’s not the only number that matters. Here are a few other specs to keep in mind:
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at a set temperature and may be more helpful in extremely hot climates.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) tells you how efficiently it heats your home during colder months when you’re installing a heat pump.
- ENERGY STAR® Certification means the system meets the EPA’s strict energy-efficiency guidelines.
None of these ratings matter much if the system isn’t installed properly. A unit that’s too small or too large for your space, or one hooked into leaky ductwork, won’t perform the way it should. That’s why we always look at the full picture: your home’s layout, insulation, airflow, and comfort needs.
Choosing the SEER That Makes the Most Sense for You
There’s no perfect SEER number that works for every home. What’s best for you depends on a lot of variables that a Schwantes HVAC expert can help you figure out.
In lieu of that, here’s a rough breakdown many homeowners find helpful:
- SEER 13–14: Budget-friendly but may not meet minimum efficiency requirements in some states.
- SEER 15–17: Solid middle ground for many homes, offering strong efficiency at a reasonable price.
- SEER 18+: Great for long-term savings, but best suited to large homes, high-use households, or hot climates.
Still unsure what to choose? That’s where we come in.
Let Schwantes Help You Make a Smart Choice
At Schwantes, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We take the time to understand your space before we start recommending unnecessary upgrades. Whether you need an ultra-efficient upgrade or something dependable that stays within your budget, we’ll help you make a choice that feels rightand performs the way it should.
