Key takeaways
- SEER and SEER2 rate cooling efficiency
- AFUE rates how much fuel becomes heat
- HSPF rates heat pump heating
- Real savings depend on use, ducts and installation
The main ratings
SEER and the newer SEER2 describe cooling efficiency over a season: a higher number means less electricity for the same cooling. AFUE is the share of a furnace's fuel that becomes heat, so ninety-five percent means ninety-five percent of the fuel heats the house. HSPF and its newer version rate a heat pump's heating efficiency.
They are lab measures. Your results depend on how the system is installed and used.
What to weigh
Higher ratings cost more. The savings depend on how many hours you run the equipment, your electric and gas rates and how long you will stay. In a house with leaky ducts, a super-efficient unit can disappoint.
A mid-range rating on a well-installed system often beats a top rating on a poor install.
Ask for the comparison
Ask your contractor to show the estimated annual operating costs for two or three options in your house, not just the ratings.
Check available rebates and tax incentives for high-efficiency equipment, which change over time.
Related services
Quick answers
Is a higher SEER always worth it?
Not always. It depends on usage, rates and the home. We can compare costs.
What is the difference between SEER and SEER2?
SEER2 uses a more realistic test that accounts for the duct resistance of a real installation.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 615-431-3789.