All air conditioning units sold in the United States are assigned an efficiency ratio known as ?seasonal energy efficiency ratio? (SEER).  This ratio is governed by U. S. law and regulated by the U. S. Department of Energy.

The minimum efficiency standard for central air conditioners and heat pumps has been at 10 SEER since 1992.  This standard will change to a 13 SEER rating in January 2006. Manufacturers will no longer be able to make any central air conditioning units or heat pumps less than 13 SEER.

The 13 SEER standard means new air conditioning systems will use less electricity than the current 10 SEER standard.  Therefore, the use of SEER 13+ systems is expected to lower peak electricity during the summer.  The SEER rating is similar to the miles-per-gallon rating for automobiles.  The higher the rating number, the more efficient it is.

The 13 SEER regulation does not affect a homeowner?s current air conditioner. The 13 SEER will affect homeowners and builders looking to purchase a new central air conditioner this year or next in several ways.  The cost of a new energy efficient air conditioning system will increase by 30% to 60%.  The new air conditioning condensing units will be heavier and larger than the current units.  In some cases, homeowners will have to make significant modifications to their homes to accommodate the new systems.

If the homeowner has a home protection plan, the increase in the cost for the new energy efficient air conditioning equipment may be paid by the plan, but the homeowner would have to pay for modification to their home to accommodate the equipment.

When buying an air conditioner, it is recommended to select the highest SEER rating you can afford.  You may want to ask you contractor to calculate how long it will take for the new system to ?pay for itself? in terms of lower utility bills.  Usually the savings are enough to offset the cost of the new system within a few years.  This calculation by the contractor would factor in you home?s size and the typical energy cost for your geographic area.