SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) tells you how much cooling an air conditioner or heat pump delivers for each unit of electricity it uses. The higher the number, the less it costs to run.
SEER rating chart at a glance
13–14 SEER: older or entry-level systems. Many units installed before 2015 fall here.
15–16 SEER (about 14.3–15.2 SEER2): today's standard efficiency range and the minimum for new installs in northern states.
17–20 SEER: high efficiency, usually with two-stage compressors and quieter operation.
21+ SEER: the highest SEER air conditioners and heat pumps, using variable-speed compressors. Some top Lennox models reach the mid-20s.
SEER vs. SEER2
In 2023 the Department of Energy moved to SEER2, a test that better reflects real duct pressure. SEER2 numbers read a little lower than the old SEER for the same equipment, so compare like with like.
What SEER rating makes sense in northwest Minnesota?
Our cooling season is short, so the jump from 16 to 24 SEER pays back slower here than in the South. Many homeowners land in the 16–18 range. If you're choosing a heat pump that also heats your home, higher efficiency pays off year-round and is worth a closer look.
We'll walk you through the numbers for your home before you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions
+What is the highest SEER rating available?
Some variable-speed residential systems are rated in the mid-20s SEER. Lennox's top air conditioners are among the most efficient on the market.
+Is a higher SEER rating always worth it?
Not always. In a short cooling season the payback is longer. Comfort, noise and heat pump use are often better reasons to step up.
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