Understanding SEER Ratings

When it comes to cooling your Florida home, efficiency matters. The heat and humidity in St. Johns and Putnam Counties are no joke, and your air conditioning system works hard to keep you comfortable. But how do you know if your AC unit is doing its job efficiently? That’s where SEER ratings come in.

At Artic Air Home Services, we’ve been helping Florida homeowners stay cool since 1959, and we believe informed customers make the best decisions. Let’s break down what SEER ratings mean—and why they’re so important when choosing or maintaining your air conditioner.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently your air conditioning system operates over a cooling season. Think of it like your car’s miles-per-gallon rating: the higher the SEER, the more energy-efficient your system is.

The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the total cooling output (measured in BTUs) by the total energy consumed (in watt-hours) during a typical season.

In Florida, where your AC runs almost year-round, a higher SEER rating can mean significant energy savings.

What’s a Good SEER Rating?

As of 2023, the minimum SEER rating for new systems in the Southeast region, including Florida, is 15 SEER. However, systems with ratings of 16 SEER or higher are becoming the new standard due to their improved performance and long-term cost savings.

Here’s a quick guide:

• 13-14 SEER: Older units, still operational but less efficient

• 15-16 SEER: Meets current standards, good efficiency

• 17-21+ SEER: High-efficiency systems with excellent energy savings

Why SEER Ratings Matter in Florida

In St. Augustine and surrounding areas, air conditioning isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. A high SEER rating doesn’t just help the environment; it helps your wallet, too. Over time, you’ll see a noticeable difference in your energy bills, especially during the peak summer months.

At Artic Air Home Services, we recommend choosing the highest SEER rating for your budget. While a high-efficiency system may cost more upfront, it often pays for itself in savings, reliability, and comfort.

Let Artic Air Home Services Help You Choose the Right System

Every home and business is different. That’s why our experienced team takes the time to understand your needs before recommending an AC system. Whether you’re upgrading to a more efficient model or scheduling routine maintenance to keep your current system running at its best, we’re here to help.

We’ve proudly served St. Augustine, St. Johns County, and Putnam County for over 60 years. Our team is licensed, trained, and dedicated to your comfort. We stand behind every job with our satisfaction guarantee.

Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re considering a new AC unit or simply want to learn more about your system’s SEER rating, give Artic Air Home Services a call. We’ll help you find the most efficient solution for your space—so you can stay cool, save money, and breathe easy all year.

Reach out to Artic Air Home Services today at (386) 280-7318.