SEER Rating Chart: Complete AC Efficiency Reference Guide

Complete SEER Rating Chart

The following chart shows SEER ratings from 8 to 26, along with relative energy use, efficiency classification, typical applications, and estimated annual operating costs for a 3-ton system running 1,500 hours per year at $0.15/kWh.

*Estimated annual cost based on 3-ton system, 1,500 cooling hours/year, $0.15/kWh. Actual costs vary by usage, climate, and electricity rates.

Understanding SEER Ratings

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, a metric developed by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure air conditioning efficiency across an entire cooling season. You can verify equipment ratings in the AHRI Directory and find ENERGY STAR certified central air conditioners for models that exceed minimum standards. Unlike EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio), which measures efficiency at a single outdoor temperature of 95°F, SEER accounts for varying temperatures ranging from 65°F to 104°F throughout a typical cooling season. For a deeper explanation of EER vs SEER, see our EER to SEER Conversion guide.

The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the total cooling output during a typical cooling season (measured in BTUs) by the total electrical energy input during the same period (measured in watt-hours). A higher SEER number indicates greater efficiency, meaning the unit produces more cooling per unit of electricity consumed.

For example, an air conditioner with a 16 SEER rating produces 16 BTUs of cooling for every watt-hour of electricity consumed over the course of a cooling season. This is 60% more efficient than a 10 SEER unit, which produces only 10 BTUs per watt-hour.

SEER Rating Tiers Explained

Air conditioners can be grouped into efficiency tiers based on their SEER ratings. Each tier represents a different balance between upfront cost, operating cost, and features.

Minimum Efficiency Tier (13-14 SEER)

These ratings represent the legal minimum for new air conditioners in the United States. As of January 2023, the minimum SEER requirement is 14 in northern states and 15 in southern states. Units at this tier offer the lowest purchase price but highest operating costs.

Characteristics:

• Single-stage compressor (on/off operation)
• Single-speed fan motor
• Lowest upfront cost ($3,000-$5,000 installed)
• Basic humidity control
• Suitable for mild climates or budget-conscious buyers

Good Efficiency Tier (15-16 SEER)

This tier represents the sweet spot for many homeowners, offering meaningful energy savings over minimum-efficiency units without the premium price of high-efficiency systems. A 16 SEER unit uses approximately 14% less energy than a 14 SEER unit.

Characteristics:

• Often single-stage, sometimes two-stage compressor
• May include variable-speed blower motor
• Moderate upfront cost ($4,000-$6,500 installed)
• Improved humidity control
• Good balance of cost and efficiency for most climates

High Efficiency Tier (17-19 SEER)

High-efficiency units typically feature two-stage compressors that can run at reduced capacity when full cooling isn't needed. This provides better humidity control, more consistent temperatures, and quieter operation in addition to energy savings.

Characteristics:

• Two-stage compressor (high and low capacity)
• Variable-speed blower motor standard
• Higher upfront cost ($5,500-$8,000 installed)
• Excellent humidity control
• Quieter operation than single-stage units
• Ideal for warm to hot climates

Very High Efficiency Tier (20-21 SEER)

At this tier, you'll find variable-speed or inverter-driven compressors that can adjust their output continuously rather than cycling on and off. These systems run longer at lower capacities, providing superior comfort and efficiency.

Characteristics:

• Variable-speed or inverter compressor
• Communicating thermostat compatibility
• Premium upfront cost ($7,000-$10,000 installed)
• Superior humidity control and comfort
• Very quiet operation
• Best for hot climates with extended cooling seasons

Ultra-High Efficiency Tier (22+ SEER)

The highest-efficiency units available represent the pinnacle of AC technology. These systems use advanced inverter compressors, sophisticated controls, and premium components to achieve maximum efficiency.

Characteristics:

• Advanced inverter compressor technology
• Smart home integration capabilities
• Premium cost ($9,000-$15,000+ installed)
• Whisper-quiet operation
• Precise temperature and humidity control
• Extended warranties often available
• Best for hot climates, environmentally conscious buyers, or long-term homeowners

SEER Savings Comparison Chart

The following chart shows annual energy savings when upgrading from a 10 SEER unit to various higher SEER ratings. Calculations assume a 3-ton system running 1,500 hours annually at $0.15/kWh.

Notice that while savings increase with higher SEER ratings, the incremental benefit decreases. Moving from 10 to 14 SEER saves $231/year, but moving from 20 to 25 SEER (a bigger jump in rating points) saves only an additional $81/year. This diminishing return is important to consider when evaluating upgrade options.

SEER Requirements by Region

The U.S. Department of Energy sets minimum SEER requirements that vary by geographic region. As of January 2023, the country is divided into three efficiency regions:

Northern Region (14 SEER minimum)

States in this region have milder summers and shorter cooling seasons, so the minimum requirement is 14 SEER. This region includes:

• All of New England (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT)
• Mid-Atlantic states (NY, NJ, PA)
• Midwest (OH, MI, IN, IL, WI, MN, IA, MO, ND, SD, NE, KS)
• Mountain states (MT, ID, WY, CO, UT)
• Pacific Northwest (WA, OR, Northern CA)

Southeast/Southwest Region (15 SEER minimum)

States with hot summers require more efficient cooling systems, so the minimum is 15 SEER. This region includes:

• Southeast (VA, WV, NC, SC, GA, FL, AL, MS, LA, AR, TN, KY)
• Southwest (TX, OK, NM, AZ, NV, Southern CA)
• Hawaii

Understanding SEER2

In 2023, the industry also introduced SEER2, a new testing standard (see our full guide: SEER vs SEER2 Explained) that uses updated procedures more representative of real-world conditions. SEER2 ratings are typically about 4.5% lower than equivalent SEER ratings. The minimum requirements in SEER2 terms are:

• Northern region: 13.4 SEER2 (equivalent to 14 SEER)
• Southeast/Southwest region: 14.3 SEER2 (equivalent to 15 SEER)

SEER Rating by Climate Zone

Choosing the right SEER rating depends heavily on your climate zone and how many hours you run your AC annually. Here are recommendations by climate:

Hot Climates (2,000-3,000 cooling hours/year)

Examples: Phoenix, Miami, Houston, Las Vegas, Tampa

Recommended SEER: 18-21+

In hot climates, your AC runs extensively, making high-efficiency units financially attractive. The energy savings from a 20 SEER unit versus 14 SEER in Phoenix (2,500 hours/year) could exceed $400 annually, leading to reasonable payback periods even for expensive systems.

Warm Climates (1,500-2,000 cooling hours/year)

Examples: Atlanta, Dallas, Charlotte, Nashville, Raleigh

Recommended SEER: 16-18

These climates have substantial cooling seasons but not as extreme as the hottest regions. A 16-18 SEER unit typically offers the best value, with meaningful savings without excessive upfront cost.

Moderate Climates (1,000-1,500 cooling hours/year)

Examples: Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, Denver, St. Louis

Recommended SEER: 14-16

With moderate cooling needs, the payback period for high-SEER units extends considerably. A 16 SEER unit is often the most cost-effective choice, providing some savings without the premium of higher-tier systems.

Mild Climates (400-1,000 cooling hours/year)

Examples: Seattle, San Francisco, Portland, Minneapolis

Recommended SEER: 14-15

In mild climates with limited cooling needs, investing in high-SEER equipment rarely makes financial sense. A minimum-efficiency or slightly better unit is typically the most economical choice, unless other factors like comfort features or environmental concerns are priorities.

Historical SEER Standards Chart

SEER minimum requirements have increased over time as technology has improved and energy efficiency has become more important. Understanding this history helps identify older equipment that may be due for replacement.

If your AC unit predates 2006, it's likely rated 10 SEER or below. Replacing such a unit with a modern 16 SEER system would reduce energy consumption by 38% or more, resulting in substantial annual savings.

SEER Rating and Equipment Type

Different types of cooling equipment tend to have different SEER rating ranges. Understanding these differences helps set appropriate expectations.

Central Air Conditioners

Traditional split-system central air conditioners are available from 14 SEER to approximately 26 SEER. Most major manufacturers offer units across this full range, giving consumers flexibility in choosing their efficiency level.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps, which provide both cooling and heating, have SEER ratings similar to central air conditioners (14-26 SEER). However, they also have an HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) rating for heating efficiency. When choosing a heat pump, consider both ratings based on whether you'll use it primarily for cooling or heating.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-split systems often achieve the highest SEER ratings, with some models exceeding 30 SEER. Their inverter-driven compressors and absence of duct losses contribute to this exceptional efficiency. However, comparing mini-split SEER to central AC SEER requires some caution, as mini-splits cool specific zones rather than whole houses.

Packaged Units

Packaged air conditioners, which contain all components in a single outdoor cabinet, typically have slightly lower SEER ratings than split systems, ranging from 14 to about 18 SEER. This is due to design constraints of the all-in-one format.

Window and Portable Units

Window air conditioners and portable units use CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio) rather than SEER, so direct comparisons are difficult. These units generally fall in the 9-15 CEER range, roughly equivalent to 10-17 SEER for comparative purposes.

Top AC Brands and Their SEER Ranges

Major HVAC manufacturers offer air conditioners across a wide range of SEER ratings. Here is a comparison of popular brands and the efficiency levels available in their current product lines. For help identifying your unit's brand and SEER, see How to Find Your SEER Rating.

SEER ranges are approximate and vary by model, capacity, and indoor coil pairing. SEER2 values calculated using the approximate 0.955 conversion factor. Check the AHRI Directory for exact ratings on specific equipment combinations.

Reading AC Unit Labels

Finding your current unit's SEER rating helps you estimate potential savings from an upgrade. For a complete walkthrough, read our guide: How to Find Your AC's SEER Rating. Here's where to look:

EnergyGuide Label

New air conditioners come with a bright yellow EnergyGuide label that displays the SEER rating prominently, along with estimated yearly operating cost and comparison to other models. This label may still be attached to your outdoor unit if relatively new.

Nameplate/Data Plate

Every AC unit has a metal nameplate attached to the outdoor condenser unit. This plate includes the model number, serial number, and electrical specifications. The SEER rating is sometimes listed directly. If not, the model number can be used to look up specifications online.

Model Number Lookup

Many manufacturers embed efficiency information in their model numbers. For example, a model containing "16" or "160" often indicates 16 SEER. Searching the model number on the manufacturer's website or AHRI (Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute) database provides complete specifications.

Age Estimation

If you can't find the SEER rating directly, the unit's age provides a rough estimate:

• Before 1992: Likely 8-10 SEER
• 1992-2005: Likely 10-12 SEER
• 2006-2014: Likely 13-14 SEER
• 2015-2022: Likely 13-16 SEER
• 2023+: At least 14-15 SEER

Cost-Benefit Analysis by SEER Rating

Understanding the relationship between equipment cost, operating cost, and total cost of ownership helps identify the optimal SEER rating for your situation.

*Installed costs are estimates for a 3-ton system and vary significantly by region and installer. **Operating costs based on 1,500 hours/year at $0.15/kWh.

This analysis reveals an important insight: in moderate climates with average electricity rates, 16 SEER often provides the lowest 10-year total cost. Higher SEER ratings become more economical in hot climates where operating hours are much higher, or in areas with expensive electricity.

Factors Beyond SEER to Consider

While SEER is the primary efficiency metric, other factors affect real-world performance and should influence your decision:

EER Rating

EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at peak conditions (95°F). If you live in a consistently hot climate, a high EER may be more important than a high SEER, as your system will operate near peak conditions frequently.

SEER2 Compliance

New testing standards (SEER2) provide more accurate real-world efficiency estimates. When comparing systems, ensure you're comparing SEER to SEER or SEER2 to SEER2, not mixing the two.

Installation Quality

Even a 25 SEER unit will underperform if improperly installed. Correct refrigerant charge, proper airflow, well-sealed ductwork, and correct sizing are all essential for achieving rated efficiency.

Compressor Type

Single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors operate differently and affect comfort as well as efficiency. Variable-speed systems may achieve their rated SEER more consistently than single-stage units.

Warranty and Reliability

Higher-efficiency units often come with better warranties. Consider the value of extended coverage, especially for expensive inverter compressors.

How to Use This SEER Chart

To get the most value from this SEER rating chart:

1. Identify your current system's SEER: Use the methods described above to find your existing unit's efficiency rating.
2. Determine your climate zone: Identify how many hours your AC typically runs annually based on your location.
3. Set a budget range: Based on installed costs in the chart, determine which SEER tiers fit your budget.
4. Calculate potential savings: Use our SEER Calculator to estimate savings for specific upgrade scenarios. You can also reference our SEER Rating Savings Chart for detailed savings by climate zone.
5. Consider total cost of ownership: Factor in both upfront and operating costs over your expected ownership period.
6. Research available incentives: Check for utility rebates, federal tax credits, and manufacturer promotions that might offset higher upfront costs.

Conclusion

A SEER rating chart is an essential reference for anyone shopping for a new air conditioner or evaluating their current system's efficiency. While higher SEER ratings mean lower operating costs, the optimal choice depends on your specific climate, electricity rates, and how long you plan to own the system.

Key takeaways from this SEER rating chart:

• SEER ratings range from 8 (very old units) to 26+ (ultra-high efficiency)
• Current minimum requirements are 14 SEER (North) and 15 SEER (South)
• Energy savings increase with higher SEER, but with diminishing returns above 20 SEER
• 16-18 SEER typically offers the best value for most homeowners
• Hot climates benefit most from high-efficiency units
• Consider total cost of ownership, not just purchase price or operating cost alone

For help deciding which rating is right for you, read What SEER Rating Do I Need? You can also explore our SEER Rating Savings Chart for detailed savings breakdowns by climate zone, or see our SEER vs SEER2 guide to understand the new 2023 rating system. Use our SEER Calculator to run specific calculations for your situation and find the optimal efficiency level for your home.

Sources & References

• U.S. Department of Energy - Central Air Conditioning - Federal minimum SEER standards and efficiency guidance
• ENERGY STAR - Central Air Conditioners - Certified high-efficiency products and specifications
• AHRI Directory - Official equipment certification database for verified SEER and EER ratings
• EIA Electricity Monthly - U.S. Energy Information Administration data on electricity rates by state
• DSIRE - Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency