What SEER rating should I get?
In Nebraska, a split-system central air conditioner built on or after January 1, 2023 must be at least 13.4 SEER2, which equals 14 SEER on the older scale, and how far above that to go depends on how much you run it and what the quote looks like.
The legal minimum where you live
Bryant lists the Department of Energy's South region and Southwest region by state and defines the North as the remainder of the United States. Nebraska is not on either list, so it falls in the North.
AHRI's table for the North shows a minimum of 13.4 SEER2 (14 SEER) for split-system and single-packaged air conditioners under the standards that took effect January 1, 2023. AHRI says in the North, enforcement is based on the manufacture date. Carrier lists a national minimum of 14.3 SEER2 for heat pumps.
What SEER2 measures
American Standard says a SEER2 rating measures a cooling unit's average cooling efficiency over a range of temperatures, much like miles per gallon for a car. A higher number means a more efficient AC or heat pump for cooling.
What a higher rating gets you
- More savings the more you run it. American Standard says the more you use cooling, the more important the rating becomes.
- Better humidity control in some models. American Standard says higher SEER2 units like variable speed systems do a better job decreasing humidity and offering even cooling, while single-stage units may struggle to dehumidify.
- Fine print. American Standard notes that top ratings apply when a unit runs at peak efficiency in ideal conditions.
Installation can undo the rating
ENERGY STAR says improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent. It also says a new air conditioner will not perform at its rated efficiency if it is connected to an older furnace and blower motor. Ask the contractor how the indoor and outdoor equipment are matched.
Compare options on one quote
Ask the contractor for a minimum-efficiency option and a higher-efficiency option, with model numbers and SEER2 ratings. You can get a free quote through this site.
If your AC needs a fix now, start with AC repair in Omaha.
Sources
- Residential Central Air Conditioners (AHRI)
- 10 CFR 430.32, Energy and water conservation standards (DOE, eCFR)
- Furnaces key product criteria (ENERGY STAR)
- Minimum Efficiency Standards (Bryant)
- Minimum Efficiency Standards (Carrier)
- What's a Good SEER2 Rating? (American Standard)
- Central air conditioners (ENERGY STAR)
- Heating and cooling (ENERGY STAR)
Common questions
What is the difference between SEER and SEER2?
SEER2 is the newer rating used for the standards that took effect January 1, 2023. AHRI's table pairs 13.4 SEER2 with 14 SEER.
Is a higher SEER2 always worth it?
Not always. American Standard says the answer depends on whether you prioritize comfort, efficiency, cost savings, or a mix, and that how much you run the system matters.
What efficiency rating applies to a furnace?
Furnaces use AFUE instead. ENERGY STAR certified gas furnaces for the northern U.S. must be 97% AFUE or greater.