SEER Energy Savings Calculator
Use this SEER savings calculator to estimate how much energy and money can be saved by upgrading to a more efficient HVAC system.
Enter details for both the current and new systems, along with the local electricity cost, to get a clear comparison of cost savings that you can share with your HVAC customer.
Disclaimer:
The outputs, any associated images or diagrams, any measurements, and any and all other information (collectively, the “Outputs”) are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute a binding quote or professional advice. The Outputs are based on general assumptions and the information you provided, which may not reflect the actual specifications or condition of the subject of the calculation, particularly in the case of complex structures or inputs. Accuracy may also vary depending on location, as some data may be more complete in certain regions than others. Actual results or outcomes may vary significantly following an onsite inspection and detailed assessment by a qualified professional. Any auto-generated visuals are for illustrative purposes and may not accurately represent the subject of the calculation. The Outputs should not be relied upon as a final result or used as the sole basis for financial, renovation, operational, or strategic decisions. Jobber recommends consultation with a qualified professional before proceeding with any work, quotes, or financial decisions. Jobber and its affiliates make no warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the Outputs, and to the fullest extent permitted by law, we disclaim all liability for any damages or losses arising from reliance on the Outputs.
What is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s a number that shows how efficiently an air conditioning system or heat pump can cool a space throughout the season.
A unit’s SEER rating is calculated by dividing the total cooling output (in BTU, or British Thermal Units) by the total electricity used (in watt-hours) during a typical season. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit and the higher its cooling capacity.
A unit with 14 SEER will use more energy to produce the same cooling as an 18 SEER unit. Units with a higher SEER rating generally cost more upfront, but they can lower the homeowner’s energy bill over time.
In 2023, new national energy efficiency standards introduced SEER2, which uses updated testing procedures to better reflect how systems perform in real-world conditions.
With this SEER savings calculator, you can compare a unit that was rated with SEER1 prior to 2023 with a unit rated after 2023 using SEER2.
How does this SEER calculator work?
Our SEER calculator lets you compare two HVAC systems—current vs. new—to estimate energy consumption savings based on SEER. To calculate your cooling efficiency, enter these details into the calculator:
- Climate region (i.e., a U.S. state)
- Average cost of electricity (KWH), which is automatically calculated based on your climate region but can be adjusted if needed
- AC capacity in BTUs
- Current SEER (10–25) for the existing unit
- New SEER (10–25) for the unit that will be installed
Once you’ve entered your values, click the “Calculate” button to view the results.
This SEER comparison helps you build a strong case for recommending a higher SEER unit to your customer. It helps you communicate the value of the new system in your good-better-best HVAC proposal.
How to calculate SEER energy savings
Use this formula to calculate your SEER energy costs for a particular unit. You can run it twice using the SEER ratings of the old and new units, then compare the values to see cost savings:
Cost = (Units × (BTU ÷ Current SEER) × Cooling Hours) ÷ 1,000) × Electricity Rate
Combine this calculation with your HVAC estimating software to create more accurate pricing for HVAC jobs. And with more accurate pricing, you’ll be improving your HVAC business profit margins in no time.
What is AFUE?
AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It measures how efficiently a furnace converts the fuel it uses (like natural gas, propane, or oil) into heat over a year. The rating is given as a percentage.
For example, an AFUE of 90% means that 90% of the fuel’s energy is turned into heat, while the other 10% is lost through exhaust or other means.
A higher AFUE rating means the furnace is more efficient and uses less fuel to heat the same space. This can lead to lower heating bills and reduces the furnace’s environmental impact.
How to calculate AFUE savings
You can calculate AFUE savings using this formula:
Annual Cost = (Fuel Input ÷ Output) × Gas Rate
Repeat the equation using the input and output details for your new furnace, and compare the two costs to see what the savings could be.
Our SEER efficiency calculator also lets you easily calculate AFUE savings. Just select the “Heating” setting and enter these details into the calculator:
- Climate region (i.e., a US state)
- Average cost of electricity (KWH), which is automatically calculated based on your climate region
- Average BTU per heating season, which can be manually set to any value you want
- Current AFUE (10–100%) for the existing unit
- New AFUE (10–100%) for the unit that will be installed
Frequently Asked Questions
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A SEER rating is a number that shows the efficiency of an air conditioning or heat pump system over a full cooling season. It measures the amount of cooling the system provides compared to the amount of electricity it uses.
The higher the SEER rating, the less energy the system needs to cool a space, which can lower energy costs. For example, a system with a SEER rating of 16 uses less electricity to cool the same area than a system with a SEER rating of 13.
SEER ratings help contractors and customers compare different units and choose one that balances upfront cost with long-term energy savings.
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SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the traditional way of measuring the seasonal cooling efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump. It’s based on testing done under controlled conditions.
SEER2 is the newer standard introduced in 2023. It uses updated testing methods that better simulate real-world conditions, like outdoor temperatures and equipment operation.
This means a SEER2 rating gives a more accurate picture of how efficient a system will be when it’s actually running in a customer’s home or building. They can be lower than SEER ratings for the same equipment, but they better show the system’s true energy performance.
If you have an HVAC unit that’s been tested and rated after 2003, it will have a SEER2 rating instead of a SEER rating.
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A SEER value calculator is mainly used by HVAC contractors and sales reps. They use it during sales calls to show customers how much they could save by upgrading to a higher-efficiency system. It helps make the financial case for replacing older, low-SEER units.
What can you use a SEER calculator for?
Many HVAC contractors use a SEER energy savings calculator to determine a unit’s energy efficiency and expected utility costs. This information helps inform pricing for:
• Heating installation
• Heating repair
• Heating replacement
• Heat pump service
• Heat pump replacement
• Air conditioning service
• Air conditioning repair -
Good air change Upgrading to a higher-efficiency air conditioner can lead to noticeable energy savings. How much you save depends on your new unit’s SEER rating, how often you run your air conditioner, the size of your home, and the cost of electricity.
For example, say you live in Florida and upgrade from a SEER 10 unit to a SEER 16 unit with 18,000 BTU. That takes you from an annual energy cost of $588 to $367, or savings of 37.6%.
You can use our SEER calculator to see what a customer’s realistic energy savings could be.
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Knowing a unit’s SEER or SEER2 rating lets you accurately calculate energy savings or compare systems. There are several ways to find an air conditioner’s SEER or SEER2 rating:
1. Check the product label. Most HVAC units have a label or sticker on the outside of the equipment or on the inside panel. This label usually shows the SEER rating, along with other specs.
2. Look in the user manual or spec sheet. The manufacturer’s documentation will list the SEER or SEER2 rating for that specific model.
3. Visit the manufacturer’s website. You can often find efficiency ratings by searching the model number on the brand’s website. For even faster answers, you can simply look up the model number in your favorite search engine. -
The SEER rating on an air conditioner helps you determine how energy efficient the machine is.
With that rating, you can then calculate average power usage and cost of an existing AC unit, and compare that with the average power usage and cost of a newer, higher SEER machine.
This helps you understand the difference in energy use and costs between systems with different efficiency ratings.
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A SEER savings calculator can be helpful for a few reasons:
It shows accurate energy savings with a clear cost comparison, showing the long-term value of an AC unit or heat pump upgrade.
It helps you make the sale by showing the customer an accurate estimate of how much money they can save.
It encourages energy efficiency, which helps the customer enjoy better air quality, avoid frequent repairs to an aging unit, and reduce their environmental footprint.