Understanding SEER Ratings: What Homeowners Need to Know

By Aztil – April 16, 2025

When it’s time to replace your climate control system, you get a lot of information thrown at you. The size of the unit in tonnage and the HVAC SEER rating. What does SEER even mean? Why should it matter to a homeowner? You feel like the HVAC company has its own language.

The SEER rating influences your energy bills, home comfort, and environmental footprint, so you need to consider the best rating for your needs. We want to help you understand this rating system, how it affects your HVAC system, and what to consider when choosing a new one.

What Is an HVAC SEER Rating?

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures the efficiency of your air conditioner or heat pump over the cooling season. It’s a way for you to easily compare one unit’s efficiency over another. A higher SEER rating indicates a higher efficiency.

How SEER Is Calculated

To get the SEER, you divide the unit’s cooling output over a season by the total electricity it consumes. For example, if a unit has a SEER rating of 18, it puts off 18 BTUs for every watt-hour of electricity it uses.

Why Does SEER Matter?

Does the SEER really matter? Yes, and here’s why.

Energy efficiency and lower utility bills: With a higher HVAC SEER rating, it takes less energy to cool your home, lowering your utility bills. When you upgrade from a model with a 10 SEER to one with a 16 SEER, you can save between 30 and 40 percent of your cooling costs.
Improved home comfort: Units with higher SEER ratings feature variable-speed compressors and fans, helping maintain more consistent indoor temperatures while reducing humidity. It also avoids frequent on/ off cycles and runs more quietly.
Environmental benefits: You reduce your home’s carbon footprint with increased efficiency. Most units with a high SEER provide eco-friendly refrigerants that comply with AIM Act regulations.

What Is a Good SEER Rating for Florida Homes?

We all know that the roads in Florida shimmer in the summer because the heat is melting them, and this is why you rely on your air conditioner to be in top form and energy efficient. Choosing the proper rating can help save you money while increasing your comfort. Here’s what you need to know:

Minimum: 15 SEER, required by law
Better Efficiency: 16-18 SEER
Best Performance: 20+ SEER

The ideal balance between cost and energy efficiency typically falls between 16 and 18 SEER.

SEER Rating vs. Real-World Savings

With a higher SEER and better energy efficiency, factors still affect your actual savings, such as home insulation, ductwork condition, and thermostat settings.

HVAC SEER Rating Savings Comparison

Here’s a look at the savings you can expect:

Upgrading from 10 SEER to 15 SEER saves around 33 percent
Upgrading from 10 SEER to 18 SEER saves around 44 percent
Upgrading from 10 SEER to 20+ SEER saves around 50 percent

A unit with a higher SEER does cost more upfront, but in the long run, it saves you money.

Choosing the Right SEER for Your Home

The SEER rating isn’t the only factor you should consider when it’s time to buy a new cooling unit for your home. Here are a few other factors to consider:

Size and layout of the home: You need a professional load calculation to ensure that you get the correct unit size for maximum efficiency.
Smart thermostat: This thermostat can help improve efficiency even more.
Condition of the ductwork: Leaking or uninsulated ductwork lowers efficiency even with a higher SEER-rated unit.
Budget and return on investment (ROI): You should consider your overall savings throughout the life of the unit.

Is a Higher SEER Always Better?

No, it isn’t. Even though a unit with a higher HVAC SEER rating offers better energy efficiency, it costs more upfront. To determine the best SEER for your home, consider:

How often do you run the air conditioning
How long do you plan to stay where you live
Your budget for a new system
Your home’s level of insulation and energy efficiency

If your home has an outdated HVAC system, an upgraded SEER rating can save you a lot of money.

Upgrade to a High-SEER HVAC System With Aztil Air

When it’s time to upgrade your HVAC system, Aztil Air is the company you can trust. We offer a selection of high SEER-rated air conditioners to help keep your home cool, comfortable, and cost-effective year-round. Contact us today to explore your options and find the perfect unit for your home.

What Our Clients Think Of Us

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Jeanne M Rougeau

Dana, my service tech did an amazing job to keep my AC up and running. He contacted me on his i, and was here in a flash.

He also updated me on the condition of the AC for the future, made some recommendations for me to consider.

Keep Dana on my service list and THANK YOU DANA!!!!

Pat Evans

Dana did a excellent job. He listened as to what was wrong as if he really cared. I would reccommend him to anyone. Very nice and respectable and he knew what he was doing.

E. R.

Niko was excellent. Very happy with his service. Explained everything and was very professional.

Yesterday no ac!! Yikes. Dana was the technician who did not leave our house until he discovered and fixed the problem. Believe me, he missed dinner and this was a Friday night. Couldn’t be happier. Dana was so professional and knowledgeable. So happy we bought from Aztil and have a service contract with them. If you ever think it’s not worth having the service contract in case of emergency, when you have no ac and it’s sweltering outside, you will be so happy you made a smart decision! Thank you Dana and Aztil.

Response from the owner:Hi E. R., thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Yandis did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Michael Scheps

Ramon was very thorough.

Response from the owner:Hi Michael, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Ramon did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Erlene Ratz

Rafael
Was very informative, polite, and to the point in explaining warranty information, and what parts was needed for my air conditioner.

I look forward yo his next visit in 6 months.
Keeps us up to date.

Response from the owner:Hi Erlene, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Rafael did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Michael Stein

Ramon did an excellent job in servicing my air conditioners. He also called the office to get the permit issue resolved. He informed me that Aztil was recently sold and he is enthusiastic about the new management. I also see an improvement in the communication in the past month.

Response from the owner:Hi Michael, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're glad to hear that you had an excellent experience with our service. We pride ourselves on our knowledgeable staff, and it's great to know that Aztil was able to provide you with such great service. We appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again soon!

Chris

The service tech Ramon did an excellent job doing maintenance on my ac and fixed my plaster on top of the ac unit!! Highly recommend!!!!

Response from the owner:Hi Chris, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Ramon did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Evee

I scheduled a routine check up and Cody came to my home. He was so knowledgable and found issues with AC and fixed them on the spot. He also found a major issue on my roof and I immediately called the HOA. I will definitely be asking him to come back for my next check up

Excellent Customer service Kudos Cody !!

Response from the owner:Hi Evee, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Cody did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Brett Burkey

I appreciate the online appointment system and the follow up communication until the Tech arrives. Dana, the technician on my job was terrific. He was very thorough and courteous, willing to answer all of my questions with clarity. The only thing that keeps me from awarding a 5 was the price. The service was very satisfying and Dana was exemplary.

Response from the owner:Hi Brett, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Dana did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Benjamin Stebor

Cody did an excellent job. He finished in a timely manner and answered the questions I asked him.

Response from the owner:Hi Benjamin, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Cody did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Elizabeth Bewley

I scheduled a routine check-up. Aztil canceled on me and the next appointment was 3 weeks later, so I was not happy about that. However, when my technician Ramon showed up, he was very thorough and efficient. He explained what he was doing and made good suggestions to maintain my AC. I was very happy with his work.

Response from the owner:Hi Elizabeth, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Ramon did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Cheryl Feldman

Dana came to my house today. So impressed! He was courteous and knowledgeable. Fixed the problem quickly! Five stars!.

Response from the owner:Dear Cheryl Feldman, thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with Dana. We're delighted to hear that he provided courteous and knowledgeable service while fixing the problem efficiently. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we appreciate your five-star rating. If you need any further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Susan Movizzo

Albert Rodriquez was through and professional. Great service

Response from the owner:Hi Susan, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Albert did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

ALEJANDRO MAC LEAN

Great job by Barreto

Response from the owner:Hi Alejandro, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Asiel did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Denise Goffman

Michael was amazing today on our emergency air conditioning needs. He went above and beyond to accomplish getting our unit up and running!!!

Response from the owner:Hi Denise, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Michael did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Kerry Humes

Ramon was amazing !!!! Awesome job !!!

Response from the owner:Hi Kerry, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Ramon did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Doris Campbell

Response from the owner:Hi Doris, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Susan Leigh

Ramon Serpa is the best! He performed the maintenance check on my A/C and when I told him about my husband’s allergy problems, he suggested UV lights which would improve the air quality. He installed these for me explaining the process in detail. He is the best technician we have ever had with Aztil.

Response from the owner:Hi Susan, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Ramon did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

RALPH D'ELIA

I've been using Aztil for over 20 years across 4 homes in Florida. From general services to complete A/C replacements, I wouldn't trust anyone else. My recent service in Port St. Lucie with Nico was excellent and he was very helpful in going over all of my HVAC system and answered a few questions I had.
I highly recommend Aztil for any HVAC issues or general maintenance.

Response from the owner:Hi Ralph, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Niko did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Jessica Maxson

I cannot speak highly enough of our super kind technician, Randy, who came out to assess our AC today. Randy took the time to walk us through photos of the issues in our AC and offered to take care of it ASAP as he already had the parts in his truck - LOVE the preparedness! Aztil Air Conditioning is superior and we will request Randy on a go forward basis.

UPDATE 6/17/25 - Exceptional Service from True Professionals - Highly Recommend!

We recently had our ducts cleaned and sealed, plus our dryer vent serviced by Jordan and Hero from Aztil Air Conditioning, and I cannot say enough good things about their work. From the moment they arrived, these two demonstrated exactly what professional service should look like.

What impressed us most was their commitment to education - they took the time to walk both my husband and me through every step of the process, explaining not just what they were doing, but why it mattered for our home's efficiency and air quality. It's rare to find technicians who are so patient and thorough in their explanations.

Beyond their technical expertise, Jordan and Hero showed genuine respect for our home and our comfort level throughout the entire job. They worked with care and consideration, treating our space as if it were their own. As homeowners, we've all had those experiences where workers leave you feeling uneasy - this was the complete opposite. We felt completely at ease having them in our home.

Their professionalism, kindness, and attention to detail set them apart in an industry where those qualities aren't always guaranteed. If you're looking for HVAC services you can trust, don't hesitate to call Aztil Air Conditioning. Jordan and Hero will take excellent care of you and your home.

Five stars - we'll definitely be calling them for any future needs!

Response from the owner:Thank you Jessica for your positive feedback. I'm glad you were happy with the support we provided. Please keep us in mind for any HVAC needs.

Hal Braxton

Rick was terrific. Knowledgeable fast, courteous. We hope if we need a/c work, he's the one who comes out.

Response from the owner:Hi Hal, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Rick did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Judy D

Very professional, knowledgeable, and accomplished the tasks requested..Would recommend to others.

Response from the owner:Hi Judy, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

mark marcil

Jordan was excellant. Went above and beyond listening and talking me through everything.

Response from the owner:Hi Mark, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Jordan did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Stephen Atria

Thank you Alex who diagnosed my AC issue quickly,! your superior technical skills and customer service have not gone unnoticed. Alex made my experience a pleasant one, even though my AC motor went and it needs to be ordered, the good news is it’s under warranty🤷🏼‍♂️

Response from the owner:Hi Stephen, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Alex did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Helen Kraft

Today I had a repair/replacement done by Alex Molina
Alex is knowledgeable and explains what has to be done and it will be done
He is very polite, cleans up after himself and never complained about being in the sun for the number of hours that he had to be there to work
If anybody needs work and is lucky enough for Alex Molina to be your tech all will be done right
Thank you, Alex

Response from the owner:Hi Helen, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Alex did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

John Izsak

On the ball. Courteous and efficient. Initially forgot to install cement pad, but did so when deficiency pointed out to him. Generally very pleased.

Response from the owner:Hi John, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Wendy Kozlow

Michael King gave me outstanding service for a recent maintenance visit. He is informative, polite and above all professional. He answered all my questions and gave me good tips for ongoing maintenance.

Response from the owner:Hi Wendy, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Michael did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Sharon Morella

Response from the owner:Hi Sharon, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Nancy Veras

Good job

Response from the owner:Hi Nancy, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

fjoe270 FISCHER

They were excellent

Response from the owner:Hi fjoe270, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Norman Abrams

Response from the owner:Hi Norman, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Diana Martinez

Alez molina was excellent! Kind, proficient and efficient. Worked quickly. Am so grateful.

Response from the owner:Hi Diana, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Alex did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Lisa Haber

Jordan & Herolson did a great job cleaning my ductwork. They arrived on time, were very nice, polite & efficient. Jordan explained everything clearly. They cleaned up thoroughly when they were done. The popcorn from my ceilings was everywhere, but they took care of it. Five stars.

Response from the owner:Hi Lisa thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Jordan and Hero did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Debra Johnson

Niko is always a competent , pleasant professional who assists me with my air conditioning units.

AZTIL responds to my calls in a timely manner.

Response from the owner:Hi Debra, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Niko did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Carol Perrine

Jordan an hero where effective angel. They explained evdrthing and extremely pleasant

Response from the owner:Hi Carol, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Jordan did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Karen Ponder

Tino was friendly, professional and very helpful

Response from the owner:Hi Karen, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Tino did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Mel Shulman

Dana was great!! Suggested a cut off switch to stop the water backup
Installed it right away

Response from the owner:Hi Mel, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Dana did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Susan Kryl

Aztil is always so reliable.
Dana came today, diagnosed my A/C problem and took care of right away.
Terrific service! Thank you, Dana!

Response from the owner:Hi Susan, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Dana did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Virginia Pacelli

Best workers, Jordan,and Hero.

Response from the owner:Hi Virginia, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Jordan and Hero did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Jacob Lepoff

Thanks to Aztil AC! One of our A/C units broke down unexpectedly, and Anthony got Lazaro out to us right away the next morning. Lazaro was excellent and he found the problem with our unit very quickly. We really appreciate their quick action and professional expertise. Outstanding service from start to finish!

Response from the owner:Hi Jake, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Anthony and Lazaro did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Justin Lazzara

Just has Dana come as soon as Aztil can get there team there for our family. Dana was friendly, professional and knew his stuff.

Response from the owner:Hi Justin, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Dana did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Cari Adamonis

The AC maintenance service was excellent. Niko Garza was professional, helpful, kind, and was instrumental in arranging for the next Senior Technician to solve the AC problem that I am having. That service will be sometime today. He also recommended the dryer vent cleaning and the in-line AC cleaning, of which I scheduled for Monday and paid today. My husband has been very ill for the past 4 years and in the hospital right now. Aztil has arranged the services, after Niko explained the situation, so that they will be completed before he comes home because a patient on oxygen and a feeding tube cannot be without power to the whole house, even a short shut down would endanger him. Thank you Niko!

Technician Rick Cochran did an excellent job replacing the AC breaker and ensuring that everything was in correct working condition. I really appreciated his kindness and professional demeanor. Thank you Rick!

Today Technician Alex Molina completed the services (dryer lint trap cleaning and inline air handler cleaning). Once again, I was fortunate to have a professional, gracious, and thoughtful person come to my house to perform the services. Thank you so much Alex!

June 2 2025 Thank you Cody! It is a relief to finally have the A/C back to what it should be. The replacement of the coil is probably what was needed a month ago. Rather than dwell on what was, I truly appreciate the replacement service and how kind you were to a grieving widow.

Response from the owner:Hi Admonis, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Niko did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Don Walling

Angel and his crew

Response from the owner:Hi Don, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Angel did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

David Schwarz

Tino Costanzo did an excellent job. Extremely helpful in adding to the efficiency of the operation of our air conditioning unit.

Response from the owner:Hi David, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Tino did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Walter Grimsley

This is the second time Michael King has serviced my AC for AZTIL. He is always pleasant and courteous. He explains all he does to the unit and answers all questions I may have. He is very thorough. Great asset to the company. The trainee (Skyler) with him today has a very good teacher and seems to be on his way to being a positive service tech.

Response from the owner:Hi Walter, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Michael and Skyler did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Steven Pyenson

Response from the owner:Hi Steven, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Aztil did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Jazziz

Lazaro was excellent. Full explanation of services. I would like to get him for any future services. I'd like to add that I was pleased with the vent cleaning that was performed by Alex Molina and his assistant.

Response from the owner:Hi Jazziz, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Lazaro did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

Patricia Dale

I had woken up to no ac in my house. I contacted aztil on a Saturday at 5 pm and their technician called me back within a half hour. His name was Tino, he said that he would be there within 30 minutes…. And he was! He figured out the problem in 10 minutes and he solved it! Excellent service! Thank you so very much!

Response from the owner:Hi Patricia, thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Tino did an excellent job and that you were pleased with the outcome. Thank you for being a valued customer.

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