SEER/EER Savings Calculator
Calculate annual energy cost savings from upgrading to a higher SEER system.
SEER2 note: Equipment manufactured after January 1, 2023 is rated using SEER2 (new DOE test procedure). SEER2 ratings are typically 4-5% lower than SEER for the same efficiency. When comparing a new SEER2 unit to an old SEER unit, multiply the SEER2 rating by 1.046 to compare on the same scale, or use both values as an approximate estimate.
Federal minimum: 14 SEER (North) / 15 SEER (South and Southwest) for systems before Jan 2023
US average: 750-1250 hours (varies by region). Hot climates: up to 2000+ hours
US average: $0.12-0.16/kWh. Check your utility bill for your rate.
Cost with old system
$468/yr
Cost with new system
$260/yr
Annual Savings208$/yr
Estimated payback: 7.2 years (assumes $1,500 incremental upgrade cost for a 3-ton system)
Note: Results use a 3-ton reference system for comparison purposes. Scale proportionally for other sizes. Actual savings depend on local climate, usage patterns, and utility rate structure.