SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the standard rating for cooling efficiency in air conditioners and heat pumps. It’s calculated as total cooling output (BTUs) over a typical cooling season divided by total electric energy input (watt-hours). Higher SEER = lower electric bills.
Federal minimum SEER2 for new central AC in the Western U.S. is 14.3 SEER2 as of 2026. Modern high-efficiency systems run 16-22 SEER2. Note that SEER was updated to SEER2 in 2023, with a slightly more demanding testing protocol — a SEER2 16 unit is roughly equivalent to a SEER 17 unit under the old method.
What different SEER tiers actually save
- 10 SEER — typical 2010-era unit
- 14.3 SEER2 — federal minimum, ~30% less electricity than 10 SEER
- 16 SEER2 — qualifies for Xcel rebate, ~37% lower
- 20+ SEER2 — premium, ~50% lower
Related: EER, HSPF, BTU. See also: AC installation.
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