Understanding SEER Ratings

Shopping for a new air conditioner or trying to figure out how efficient your current system is? You’ve probably run across the term SEER rating—and if you’re like most people, you’ve wondered what it actually means. At All Weather Mechanical Inc., we believe that informed homeowners make better decisions. That’s why we’re here to break it down for you.

What Does SEER Stand For?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it measures how efficiently an air conditioning system cools your home over the course of a typical season. In simple terms: the higher the SEER rating, the less energy your system uses to keep your space cool.

A unit with a SEER rating of 16 will be more efficient than one with a SEER of 13, which means less strain on your AC—and your wallet.

Why SEER Ratings Matter in Jacksonville

Living in Jacksonville means dealing with long, humid summers. Your AC isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Because your cooling system runs so frequently, efficiency becomes a major factor in your comfort and monthly energy bills.

Choosing a higher SEER-rated system can bring a few major benefits:

Lower electricity costs
More consistent cooling performance
Reduced environmental impact
Less wear and tear on your AC

Even a small bump in efficiency can make a noticeable difference when your system runs most of the year.

What's the Minimum SEER Requirement?

As of 2023, the minimum SEER rating for new air conditioners in the Southeast, including Florida, is 15 SEER. But there are plenty of options above that—some systems go all the way up to SEER 21 or more.

While higher-rated units often cost more upfront, they can pay for themselves in energy savings over time, especially in warm climates like ours.

Is Higher Always Better?

Not necessarily. The best SEER rating for your home depends on your cooling needs, usage patterns, and budget. For example, a higher SEER model might be ideal if you plan to stay home long-term or run your AC often.

At All Weather Mechanical Inc., we help our customers in Jacksonville find the sweet spot between efficiency and affordability. Our team takes the time to understand your space and recommend systems that will keep you cool without overpaying for features you don’t need.