If you haven’t heard, energy efficiency standards for heat pumps and air conditioners have changed. With the goal of making these machines more efficient, regulatory boards have improved manufacturing testing procedures. These changes are good for the environment and can help you save on energy costs. Find out more about what they are and what they mean for you as a homeowner.

SEER & SEER2

SEER, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a measure of the cooling output of an air conditioning unit divided by the energy it uses, indicating its efficiency. ACs and heat pumps typically range from 13 to 26. Higher SEER ratings signify greater energy efficiency and lower energy consumption. In Canada, the minimum SEER rating required by law for new air conditioners is currently 13, while units with a rating of 14.5 or higher receive ENERGY STAR certification. 

SEER2

However, as of January 2023, a new rating system called SEER2 has been introduced to replace SEER. The SEER2 rating system reflects a new standard in testing requirements to align with Canada’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This system addresses deficiencies in the way that SEER was calculated. Plus, it incorporates factors such as updated test procedures, field conditions, air handler static pressure, fan power for coil-only units, heating load calculation, variable speed factor, and more. This improved rating system aims to increase the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps in the current climate conditions. On top of that, it helps Canadians reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

What does it mean?

The introduction of SEER2 involves some changes to minimum efficiency ratings for ACs and heat pumps in Canada. 

• The minimum efficiency for split system heat pumps will go up to 15.0 SEER or 14.3 SEER2. 
• The minimum efficiency for ACs, including mini-splits, will go up to 14 SEER or 13.4 SEER2.
• Units that don’t meet the new efficiency standard but were manufactured prior to January 1, 2023 can still be installed.

Why should I get a high-efficiency air conditioner?

Upgrading your older AC to a newer and more efficient unit is not only better for the environment but it can reduce your energy bills. Since high-efficiency air conditioners consume less energy, you have less energy to pay for. Plus, you reduce your carbon footprint. The technology used in newer and high-efficiency systems ensures you have a consistently cool and quiet home environment. 

If you have an old AC or a system that’s rated lower than 14 SEER, upgrading will reduce your energy consumption, lower the cost of cooling your home, and have a positive impact on the planet. And right now, you can cut your costs even more by taking advantage of heat pump rebates and government grants!

Contact Delta to discuss your needs and to find out how to access the thousands of dollars in grants and rebates.

Delta Air Systems is an established heating company in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. And we’ve been installing, servicing and repairing heating and cooling systems since the 1950s and work hard to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

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