What HVAC “SEER” means to NYC, LI

What HVAC “SEER” means to NYC, LI


A new federal regulation means air conditioning systems are stepping up their game.

The change, effective Jan. 1, 2023:

•Raises the efficiency of new AC units in New York and other northern states from 13 SEER to 14 SEER In the South and other warmer climates, the minimum SEER for new units will rise to 15 from 14.

So what is SEER and what does it do?

It’s the acronym for seasonal effective energy ratio, a yardstick measuring effectiveness. The higher the ratio, the more efficient – and expensive – the system. The switch to 14 SEER from 13 SEER is about a 7 percent improvement.

SEER calculates the cooling output versus the electrical energy the unit consumes.

The rule applies only to equipment manufactured in 2023 or later. You can still buy a SEER 13 made before 2023 if you are in the market for a less expensive but less energy efficient unit.

The change to a higher SEER was required by the U.S. Department of Energy, which periodically reviews appliances for efficiency. The agency can require changes only if they are considered energy-saving, technologically feasible and economically justifiable.

Lighthouse techs know how to work on all sorts of air-conditioning, heating and ventilation systems. We serve Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Long Island.