SEER Efficiency Comparison Tool
Calculate annual operating cost differences between SEER ratings. Based on 3-ton (36,000 BTU) system, 1,500 cooling hours/year, and $0.14/kWh — all values are adjustable per scenario.
Common Upgrade Comparisons
Most common SEER upgrade decisions.
- SEER 13 vs SEER 16 — Minimum efficiency to mid-tier — common upgrade scenario
- SEER 14 vs SEER 18 — Current minimum to high-efficiency tier
- SEER 16 vs SEER 20 — Mid-tier to premium efficiency comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does each SEER point save?
Each additional SEER point reduces energy use by approximately 1/SEER. Going from SEER 13 to SEER 14 saves about 7%. From SEER 14 to SEER 15 saves about 7%. Savings per SEER point are highest at lower ratings and diminish as SEER increases. At SEER 20+, incremental gains are small.
What is SEER2 and how does it differ from SEER?
SEER2 is the current DOE rating standard as of January 2023. It uses a higher external static pressure in testing (0.5 vs 0.1 in.w.g.), making SEER2 ratings roughly 4–5% lower for the same equipment. SEER 15 equipment is approximately equivalent to SEER2 14.3.
What SEER should I buy?
DOE minimums are 14 SEER2 in most regions (15 SEER2 in the Southwest). ENERGY STAR requires 15.2 SEER2 (single-stage) or 15.2 SEER2 (two-stage). For hot climates with high cooling hours, payback on 18–20 SEER equipment is often under 7 years. In mild climates with fewer than 1,000 cooling hours, payback may exceed 15 years.