SEER2 vs SEER Explained
Understanding SEER2 vs. SEER: What You Need to Know About the New A2L Refrigerants
If you're in the market for a new HVAC system, you may have noticed new terms popping up—SEER2 ratings and A2L refrigerants, to name a couple. At Maxwell Heating & Cooling, we want to help our customers in Carrollton and the surrounding areas make informed decisions, so let’s break down what these changes mean and why they matter for your comfort and energy savings.
What is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it's been the standard measurement for air conditioner and heat pump efficiency for decades. A higher SEER rating indicates greater energy efficiency. For example, a 16 SEER system uses less energy to cool your home than a 13 SEER system.
Introducing SEER2
Beginning in 2023, the Department of Energy introduced SEER2—a new testing standard that better reflects real-world conditions, including external static pressure in ductwork. SEER2 uses updated testing procedures that are more stringent, meaning the ratings are slightly lower than traditional SEER values for the same equipment.
In short, SEER2 is not a different product—it’s a more accurate measurement of how that product performs in the real world. For example, a unit previously rated at 16 SEER might be rated closer to 15.2 SEER2 under the new testing method.
Why the Change?
The SEER2 standard ensures that homeowners get a more realistic picture of how efficiently their system will run under typical installation conditions. It's all about transparency and long-term energy savings.
What Are A2L Refrigerants?
In addition to changes in efficiency standards, 2023 also ushered in a shift to A2L refrigerants. These are mildly flammable, low-GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants that are better for the environment than older options like R-410A. A2L refrigerants are part of the HVAC industry's move toward more sustainable and climate-friendly solutions.
How SEER2 and A2L Work Together
As manufacturers adapt to A2L refrigerants, they're also designing new HVAC systems that meet SEER2 requirements. This combination ensures that new equipment is not only more environmentally responsible but also performs more accurately according to how it’s truly used in your home.
What This Means for You
If you're considering upgrading your HVAC system, you’ll likely encounter SEER2 ratings and A2L refrigerants. At Maxwell Heating & Cooling, our team is fully trained and certified to install and service this new generation of equipment. We’ll guide you through selecting the right system to match your comfort needs, budget, and energy goals.
Ready to Upgrade?
Contact Maxwell Heating & Cooling today for a free estimate or to learn more about how SEER2 and A2L refrigerants can impact your home comfort for the better. Call us or schedule your consultation online today!
If you're a homeowner in Georgia and thinking about replacing your HVAC system or upgrading your water heater, 2025 is your year to save big. Thanks to new federal tax credits and Georgia-specific rebates, you could qualify for thousands of dollars in incentives when you install energy-efficient equipment. And the best part? Maxwell Heating & Cooling is here to make the process simple and stress-free. What Is the 25C Heat Pump Tax Credit? The 25C tax credit is a federal incentive that gives you money back for installing high-efficiency equipment in your home. Here’s how it works: You get 30% back on the cost of qualifying heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. The maximum credit is $2,000 per year for heat pumps and related equipment. You can claim this credit every year if you continue making upgrades. The total credit limit is $3,200 annually, including other eligible improvements like insulation and electrical panel upgrades. This is a non-refundable tax credit, meaning it reduces what you owe the IRS, but it won’t result in a refund if your tax bill is already low. What Equipment Qualifies? Not every heat pump qualifies—only the most energy-efficient models do. To be eligible for the 25C credit, your equipment must: Be certified as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Meet or exceed CEE (Consortium for Energy Efficiency) Tier II standards If you’re not sure what that means, don’t worry. Maxwell Heating & Cooling can help you select the right system that meets all the federal requirements and gets you the maximum tax benefit. Georgia Rebates Add Even More Savings On top of the federal credit, Georgia is offering rebates through the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR) programs. These can cover: Heat pump installations Insulation upgrades Electrical panel replacements Air sealing improvements Energy-efficient appliances Some households can qualify for rebates up to $14,000 to $16,000, depending on income level and type of upgrades. Stack these state rebates with the 25C tax credit, and your out-of-pocket costs could drop significantly. How to Get the Maximum Benefit Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making the most of these incentives: Schedule an in-home consultation with Maxwell Heating & Cooling to assess your current HVAC system and energy efficiency needs. Choose qualified products that meet all federal and state requirements. Let Maxwell handle the installation and provide the documentation you’ll need for tax season. Claim the credit by filing IRS Form 5695 with your 2025 tax return. Apply for Georgia rebates with guidance from the Maxwell team. To claim the 2025 tax credit, your new system must be installed and paid for by December 31, 2025. While the program is set to run through 2032, there’s no guarantee it won’t change. Now is the perfect time to act! Navigating tax credits and rebates doesn’t have to be confusing. Let the pros at Maxwell Heating & Cooling take care of everything from product selection and installation to ensuring you get every available dollar back. Call us today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and see how much you could save in 2025.
Common HVAC myths can lead to misconceptions about how heating and cooling systems operate, potentially impacting energy efficiency, comfort, and maintenance practices. Let’s debunk some of these myths and provide accurate information:
Regular HVAC maintenance is a vital aspect of responsible homeownership or property management. While it’s tempting to overlook or neglect routine maintenance, doing so can lead to costly repairs, reduced system efficiency, and compromised indoor air quality. By investing in regular HVAC maintenance, you can enjoy numerous benefits that make it well worth the effort and cost.
