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See how much you could save by upgrading to a higher efficiency system
Average US household spends $300-$1,500 on cooling annually
Include installation cost for accurate payback calculation
When shopping for a new air conditioner, you'll see a lot of SEER ratings thrown around. A 14 SEER is the minimum, 16-18 is considered high efficiency, and 20+ is premium. But what do these numbers actually mean for your wallet?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio—it measures how much cooling you get per unit of electricity over a typical cooling season. Higher SEER means more efficient, but also more expensive equipment. The question is: will the energy savings pay back the extra cost?
Our SEER savings calculator helps you answer that question with real numbers based on your situation. Because the right choice depends on your climate, usage, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
We calculate your potential savings by comparing energy consumption at different efficiency levels:
See real dollar amounts instead of abstract efficiency percentages when comparing AC units.
Know how many years it takes for energy savings to offset the higher cost of efficient equipment.
Sometimes mid-efficiency makes more sense than premium. Our calculator shows you when.
SEER savings are much greater in hot climates where AC runs more. See what matters for your location.
Mistake: Assuming higher is always better
Solution: A 21 SEER unit costs significantly more than a 16 SEER but only saves marginally more. Calculate actual payback for your situation.
Mistake: Ignoring installation quality
Solution: A poorly installed high-SEER unit will underperform a properly installed mid-SEER unit. Quality installation matters more than SEER points.
Mistake: Not considering total system efficiency
Solution: SEER only measures the AC unit. If your ducts leak 30% of the air, even a 21 SEER system won't save much.
Mistake: Forgetting about features
Solution: Higher SEER units often include variable-speed compressors and fans that improve comfort, not just efficiency. Factor this into your decision.
Get professional input when making SEER decisions:
It depends on your climate and budget. In hot climates with heavy AC use, 16+ SEER often pays back. In moderate climates, 14-16 SEER usually offers the best value. Calculate the payback period for your specific situation.
Roughly 37% on cooling costs. If you spend $1,000/year on cooling, that's $370 in annual savings. A 20 SEER would save about 50% ($500/year), but the equipment costs significantly more.
For cooling, yes. For heat pumps, also look at HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). And EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) matters more if you mostly cool during peak afternoon heat.
Not necessarily longer, but they often have better warranties and more advanced features. Variable-speed compressors in high-SEER units may experience less wear than single-stage units that cycle on and off frequently.
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Estimate your monthly heating and cooling costs
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