Introduction
Energy efficiency has become a central criterion when choosing air conditioning systems and heat pumps. Homeowners are looking for units that can maintain optimal comfort while reducing electricity consumption. Two indicators play a key role here: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and SEER2, recently introduced to provide an even more accurate assessment.
Since 2023, SEER2 has become a must-have standard in North America, including Canada. Its implementation reflects the need to adapt evaluations to real-world operating conditions so consumers can make informed choices. Understanding these two indices is therefore essential for selecting the right air conditioner or heat pump—particularly in a climate like Quebec’s.
Key Points Summary
- SEER measures the seasonal energy efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump.
- SEER2, introduced in 2023, is a revised version that uses test conditions closer to reality.
- SEER2 accounts for external static pressure, part-load operation, and climate variations.
- SEER2 values are often lower than legacy SEER values because tests are more rigorous.
- SEER2 is now mandatory for residential air-conditioning systems in North America.
- A high SEER2 translates into energy savings and reduced environmental impact.
- Consumers should also consider COP and SCOP for a complete view of performance.
- Heat pumps and air conditioners offered by Daikin Québec already meet these new standards.
What Are SEER and SEER2?
SEER expresses the seasonal cooling performance of an air conditioner or heat pump. It is calculated by dividing the total cooling delivered during a typical season (in BTU) by the total electricity consumed (in Wh). The higher the number, the more efficient the unit.
SEER2, by contrast, is an update to this method. It corrects SEER’s limits by incorporating test conditions that are closer to those in a Canadian home: duct losses, higher external static pressure, and usage variations.
Simple Example
- An air conditioner with a SEER of 16 historically delivered strong performance.
- Under the new SEER2 standards, that same unit might be rated at 15 or 14 because the test conditions are stricter.
This difference does not mean the unit is less efficient—it means the evaluation is now more realistic.
Why Was SEER2 Introduced?
Although SEER was very useful, it did not always reflect the real-world performance of installed systems. In lab conditions, duct static pressure was often lower than in a typical home.
Result: the values obtained were sometimes too optimistic.
SEER2 was introduced to close this gap. It takes into account:
- More realistic external static pressure,
- Seasonal temperature variations,
- Part-load operation, which is the most common situation in a home.
Thanks to this evolution, consumers get a measurement that more faithfully represents their system’s real performance.
Comparison Between SEER and SEER2
SEER2 improves evaluation by imposing more rigorous tests. While SEER was based on ideal conditions, SEER2 better simulates the reality of a residential system.
Comparison Table
| Criterion | SEER | SEER2 |
| Year Introduced | Legacy Standard | 2023 |
| Test Conditions | Idealized, Low Pressure | Realistic, Higher Static Pressure |
| Part-Load Operation | Partially Included | More Fully Included |
| Resulting Values | Higher | Lower but More Realistic |
| Relevance | Theoretical | Representative of Real Use |
In short, SEER2 doesn’t completely replace SEER—it updates it. Both indices will coexist for a few more years, but the trend clearly points to SEER2 becoming the primary reference.
Impact of SEER2 on Residential Air Conditioning
Adopting SEER2 has several direct implications for consumers.
- Energy Bills: a higher SEER2 means better control of electricity consumption.
- Environment: less energy used = fewer indirect emissions.
- Informed Choice: buyers get a more reliable measure of real-world performance.
Practical Example
In a climate like Quebec’s, where air conditioning is used intensively during summer, an air conditioner with a high SEER2 can generate substantial savings over several years.
Relationship Between SEER2, COP, and SCOP
SEER2 focuses on cooling, but it shouldn’t be considered alone. For heat pumps, it is essential to also look at:
- COP (Coefficient of Performance), which measures heating efficiency under point-in-time conditions,
- SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance), which evaluates heating performance over an entire season.
A unit can have a high SEER2 (good in cooling) but an average SCOP (less efficient in heating). A good selection therefore relies on cross-reading these indices.
Regional Standards and Requirements
Since January 1, 2023, SEER2 has been mandatory for bringing new units to market in North America. Canadian regulations follow those of the United States to harmonize standards.
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum SEER values have been raised.
- Air conditioners and heat pumps must now meet SEER2 thresholds to be compliant.
Incentive Programs
In some provinces, grants and tax credits encourage the purchase of SEER2-compliant systems. These help offset the higher initial cost of such units.
Practical Tips for Choosing a SEER2-Compliant Unit
When selecting an air conditioner or heat pump, consider the following:
- Assess the Required Cooling Capacity: expressed in BTU, matched to your home’s size and insulation.
- Check SEER2, COP, and SCOP: together they provide a complete picture of year-round performance.
- Consider Lifecycle Cost: a higher-SEER2 unit often costs more upfront but saves more over time.
- Prioritize Professional Installation: even the best unit loses efficiency if poorly sized or installed.
A thoughtful choice not only reduces bills but also improves comfort and extends equipment life.
SEER vs SEER2 Summary Table
| Aspect | SEER | SEER2 |
| Indicator Type | Seasonal Performance | Seasonal Performance (Updated) |
| Conditions | Laboratory, Idealized | Real-World, Duct Losses and Pressure |
| Effective Date | Before 2023 | Mandatory Since 2023 |
| Values | Higher | Lower but Realistic |
| Relevance in Quebec | Partial | Highly Representative |
Daikin Québec and SEER2 Compliance
Units offered by Daikin Québec are designed to meet new energy-efficiency standards, including SEER2 requirements. This allows homeowners to benefit from reliable, high-performing equipment suited to Quebec’s climate realities.
Conclusion: The Importance of SEER2 in the Future of HVAC Systems
The introduction of SEER2 marks an important step in the evolution of energy standards. By making tests more realistic, it gives consumers a truer picture of their system’s performance.
For Quebec households, this means better-informed choices, long-term energy savings, and a positive contribution to reducing environmental impact. By combining SEER2 with other indices such as COP and SCOP, it becomes possible to select a unit truly suited to your needs.
For personalized guidance in choosing an air conditioner or heat pump that meets the new standards, you can rely on the expertise of Daikin Québec.
Frequently Asked Questions About SEER and SEER2
What Is the Difference Between SEER and SEER2?
SEER measures a system’s energy performance under laboratory conditions, whereas SEER2 applies stricter, more realistic tests. SEER2 accounts for duct losses, static pressure, and part-load operation, making its values more representative of actual consumption.
Why Are SEER2 Values Lower Than Old SEER Ratings?
Because SEER2 is based on more demanding test conditions. This doesn’t mean the unit is less capable—rather, the rating better reflects everyday residential use.
What Is a Good SEER2 for a Residential Air Conditioner or Heat Pump?
A SEER2 of 15 or higher is considered very good for homes in Quebec. High-efficiency models sometimes reach 18 or more, resulting in lower consumption and better comfort during hot summers.
Is SEER2 Mandatory in Canada?
Yes. Since 2023, all new air-conditioning and heat-pump systems sold in North America must meet SEER2 requirements. This standard harmonizes practices between Canada and the United States to ensure comparable evaluations.
How Does SEER2 Influence Energy Savings?
The higher the SEER2 rating, the more cooling a unit provides per kilowatt of electricity consumed. Over time, this reduces operating costs and environmental footprint—especially in households where air conditioning runs for several months a year.
Does SEER2 Completely Replace SEER?
Not yet. Both values may still appear on spec sheets during the transition period, but SEER2 is set to become the sole reference for new models.
