What Is a SEER Rating?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an air conditioner converts electricity into cooling. Higher SEER = more cooling per dollar of electricity.
Texas now uses SEER2, a slightly updated measurement standard. A 15 SEER2 system is roughly equivalent to a 15.2 SEER system under the old standard.
Texas Minimum: 15 SEER2
As of 2023, all new HVAC installations in Texas must meet a minimum of 15 SEER2. This replaced the previous 14 SEER standard.
What SEER Rating Makes Sense in Austin?
Austin's climate makes efficiency upgrades more valuable than in most cities. We run our AC 2,000+ hours per year.
What does this actually cost in Austin?
See real Austin price ranges in 60 seconds — no email required, no contractor contacts you.
15 SEER2: Meets the minimum. Good choice if you're on a tight budget or plan to sell your home soon.
17–18 SEER2: The sweet spot for most Austin homeowners. Typically saves $150–$250/year in energy costs versus 15 SEER2. Usually pays for itself in 5–7 years.
20+ SEER2: Variable-speed systems with the highest efficiency. Best for homeowners planning to stay 10+ years and those who prioritize comfort (these systems also dehumidify better).
Austin Energy Rebates by SEER
Austin Energy offers rebates for higher-efficiency systems. See our rebate guide for current amounts.
The Bottom Line
For most Austin homeowners staying in their home 5+ years, a 16–18 SEER2 system offers the best return on investment. Use our calculator to see the price difference between efficiency tiers for your specific home.
