Like many consumer products that use energy, air conditioners and heat pumps are
manufactured to meet or exceed minimum efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of
Energy. For nearly a decade, that minimum has been 10 SEER which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency
Ratio. On January 23, 2006, the minimum will jump to 13 SEER, a 30% increase over the
current standard. And in June, 2008 13 SEER will affect all 3-phase units 5ton and under as well.
Much like miles-per-gallon ,MPG, for a car, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio,SEER,
measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. The higher the SEER, the more
efficient the product.
Who will this affect?
The 13 SEER minimum applies to everyone - consumers, your local HVAC dealer and all
manufacturers of air conditioners and heat pumps. However, it only applies to new equipment
manufactured on or after January 23, 2006. In other words, you can continue to use your current
system indefinitely, even if it operates below 13 SEER. However, if you own an older system that
often needs repair, or if it is simply time to replace your current system, purchasing a 13 SEER
model now will give you two advantages:
You'll start saving money on your monthly utility bills with a newer, more energy efficient
system.
You'll be able to make the switch at today's costs instead of tomorrow's.
What does it mean to me?
For many homeowners and building owners, a 13 SEER air conditioner or heat pump will
represent money saved on each month's electric bill. Exactly how much you can save will depend
on the efficiency of your current system.
Here's a comparison:
13 SEER Efficiency
Delivers about 23% energy savings compared to 10 SEER models
Delivers about 8% energy savings compared to 12 SEER models
Actual savings will depend on the age, efficiency and condition of the unit being replaced, but for
anyone currently considering a new air
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