Shopping for a new air conditioner or heat pump in 2025? You’ve probably come across the term SEER rating. But what exactly does it mean — and why should it matter to homeowners in Michigan?
What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s a measurement of how efficiently an HVAC system can cool your home over an entire season. The higher the SEER number, the more energy-efficient the unit is — and the lower your energy bills can be.
SEER vs. SEER2: What’s the Difference?
SEER2 is the updated version of the original SEER rating, introduced to reflect more accurate, real-world conditions. The Department of Energy began requiring SEER2 standards in 2023 to help homeowners make better efficiency comparisons.
Here’s how they differ:
- SEER (original): Based on controlled lab testing with static pressure at 0.1 inches of water column (WC).
- SEER2: Uses updated testing procedures with a higher static pressure of 0.5 WC to better mimic actual field conditions.
Because SEER2 uses stricter, more realistic testing, the values are slightly lower than SEER for the same system. For example, a unit that was rated SEER 15 under old standards may now be rated SEER2 13.4.
This doesn’t mean the system is less efficient — it just means the testing is more accurate.
How SEER Is Calculated
SEER is the ratio of total cooling output during a typical season divided by the total electric energy input. While the math happens behind the scenes, here’s the basic idea:
- High SEER = More Cooling with Less Energy
- Low SEER = Less Efficient, Higher Energy Bills
2025 SEER Standards for Michigan
As of 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy raised the minimum SEER requirements:
- New minimum for Northern states (including Michigan): SEER2 13.4
- Older SEER values are being phased out
SEER2 ratings are part of the latest testing standard that better reflects real-world performance — so be sure you’re looking at SEER2 numbers when comparing systems in 2025.
Is a Higher SEER Always Better?
Not always. While higher SEER systems offer better efficiency, they also come with higher upfront costs. The best SEER rating for you depends on:
- Your local climate (Michigan’s summers are warm but not extreme)
- How long you plan to stay in your home
- Your monthly energy budget
- Whether you’re upgrading other parts of your HVAC system
Recommended SEER Ratings for Michigan Homeowners
For most homeowners in mid-Michigan, a unit with a SEER2 rating of 15–17 strikes the best balance between cost and efficiency. If you plan to stay long-term or want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider high-efficiency systems rated 18+.
Why SEER Ratings Matter for Rebates and Tax Credits
Many local utilities and federal programs offer rebates or tax incentives for installing high-efficiency HVAC systems. In most cases, eligibility requires meeting minimum SEER2 thresholds — another reason to make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts: What to Ask Your HVAC Contractor
When replacing or upgrading your AC or heat pump, ask your contractor:
- “What’s the SEER2 rating of this system?”
- “How does it compare with my current unit?”
- “Will this qualify for any rebates or incentives?”
At Green Star HVAC, we help homeowners choose the most efficient system for their home and budget — without the guesswork.
Need help picking the right high-efficiency system? Schedule a free consultation or explore our energy-saving tips.