SEER ratings are like MPG for your car – they tell you how efficiently your AC uses electricity. But unlike cars where higher MPG is always better, the "best" SEER rating depends on your specific situation, budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about SEER ratings in plain English, helping you make the smartest choice for your San Antonio home without overspending on efficiency you don't need.
What Exactly is SEER?
SEER = Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
It measures cooling output (BTUs) divided by energy input (watts) over an entire cooling season.
Simple Translation: Higher SEER = Lower electric bills
SEER vs SEER2 (New 2023 Standard)
SEER (Old Testing)
- • Used until 2023
- • Less realistic testing conditions
- • 14 SEER minimum (South)
SEER2 (New Testing)
- • Required since 2023
- • More accurate real-world testing
- • 15 SEER2 minimum (South)
Note: SEER2 ratings are about 4.5% lower than old SEER for the same unit
SEER Rating Categories & Costs
14-15 SEER (Minimum Legal)
Best For:
- • Tight budgets
- • Rental properties
- • Planning to move soon
Costs:
- • Unit: $3,000-4,500
- • Summer bill: ~$380/month
- • 10-year cost: $19,800
Meets code but highest operating costs
16-18 SEER (Sweet Spot)
Best For:
- • Most homeowners
- • 5+ years in home
- • Balance of cost/savings
Costs:
- • Unit: $4,500-6,000
- • Summer bill: ~$320/month
- • 10-year cost: $17,400
Best value - saves $2,400 over 10 years vs minimum SEER
19-21 SEER (High Efficiency)
Best For:
- • Large homes (3000+ sq ft)
- • Run AC year-round
- • Environmental priority
Costs:
- • Unit: $6,000-8,000
- • Summer bill: ~$285/month
- • 10-year cost: $17,100
Great savings but longer payback period
22+ SEER (Ultra Premium)
Best For:
- • Luxury homes
- • Maximum comfort priority
- • Money no object
Costs:
- • Unit: $8,000-12,000
- • Summer bill: ~$250/month
- • 10-year cost: $18,000
Diminishing returns - features matter more than efficiency
SEER Recommendations for San Antonio
San Antonio Climate Facts:
- • AC runs 8-9 months per year
- • 100°F+ days: 20-30 annually
- • Average summer bill: $350-450
- • Cooling accounts for 70% of summer electric use
Our Local Recommendations:
Best Overall Choice: 16-17 SEER
Perfect balance for San Antonio's long cooling season. Pays for itself in 4-5 years.
Large Homes (2500+ sq ft): 18-20 SEER
Higher cooling loads justify the extra investment. Variable speed provides better comfort.
Small Homes/Condos: 14-15 SEER
Lower cooling needs mean longer payback on high SEER. Invest in proper sizing instead.
Real Cost Analysis: 2,000 sq ft Home
| SEER Rating | Unit Cost | Annual Electric | 5-Year Total | 10-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 SEER | $4,500 | $2,280 | $15,900 | $27,300 |
| 16 SEER | $5,500 | $1,995 | $15,475 | $25,450 |
| 18 SEER | $6,500 | $1,773 | $15,365 | $24,230 |
| 20 SEER | $7,500 | $1,596 | $15,480 | $23,460 |
*Based on $0.12/kWh, 3-ton system, 2,000 cooling hours/year
Beyond SEER: Other Important Features
Variable Speed Technology
More important than SEER alone:
- • Better humidity control
- • Quieter operation
- • More consistent temperatures
- • 40% more efficient at part load
Two-Stage Cooling
Runs at 70% capacity most times:
- • Longer, more efficient cycles
- • Better dehumidification
- • Reduced wear and tear
- • Worth 2-3 SEER points
Proper Sizing
More critical than SEER:
- • Oversized = short cycling, humidity
- • Undersized = runs constantly
- • Demand Manual J calculation
- • Can save 20% alone
Quality Installation
Poor installation ruins efficiency:
- • Proper refrigerant charge
- • Sealed ductwork
- • Correct airflow
- • Worth 30% efficiency
Quick Decision Guide
Answer These Questions:
How long will you stay in this home?
• Less than 3 years → 14-15 SEER
• 3-7 years → 16-17 SEER
• 7+ years → 18+ SEER
What's your average summer electric bill?
• Under $300 → 14-15 SEER
• $300-450 → 16-18 SEER
• Over $450 → 18+ SEER
What's your home size?
• Under 1,500 sq ft → 14-15 SEER
• 1,500-2,500 sq ft → 16-18 SEER
• Over 2,500 sq ft → 18+ SEER
Common SEER Myths Debunked
Myth: "Highest SEER is always best"
Truth: After 20 SEER, you're paying for features, not efficiency savings.
Myth: "SEER rating guarantees savings"
Truth: Poor installation can negate 30% of rated efficiency.
Myth: "All 16 SEER units perform the same"
Truth: Build quality, features, and warranty vary greatly by brand.
Myth: "SEER2 units are more expensive"
Truth: It's just a new testing standard, not different equipment.
2025 Rebates & Tax Credits
Available Incentives:
-
Federal Tax Credit: 30% up to $2,000 for 16+ SEER2
-
CPS Energy Rebate: $300-600 for 16+ SEER
-
Manufacturer Rebates: $200-1,000 seasonal offers
-
ENERGY STAR: Additional $100-300 for certified models
Total Possible Savings: Up to $3,900 on qualifying systems
Get Your Perfect SEER Match
FREE efficiency analysis & honest recommendations. Save $3,000 vs the overpriced giants!