When that Philly heat rolls in, your air conditioner becomes the real MVP of the house. But when it’s time to upgrade your system, you’ll likely run into two common efficiency ratings: SEER and EER. These numbers help you understand how much energy your unit will use — and how much money you might save. Even better? Choosing a high-efficiency system could also land you a federal tax break.

Let’s unpack what these ratings mean, and how they could put some money back in your pocket.

What’s SEER?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently your air conditioner or heat pump performs over an entire cooling season — including those hot July days and milder ones in spring and fall.

  • Higher SEER = more efficiency.

  • For Philly, new systems typically start at SEER 14, but SEER 16 or higher is considered high efficiency and may qualify for federal tax incentives.

What’s EER?

EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. It rates how well a system performs during a single, very hot day — typically 95°F outdoors with 50% humidity indoors (basically, a South Philly August afternoon).

  • It gives a more accurate picture of peak performance.

  • A unit with both high SEER and high EER means strong performance all season long and during heatwaves.

Why You Should Care About Both

  • SEER is great for estimating long-term savings on your energy bills.

  • EER tells you how the unit holds up when Philly weather turns brutal.

If you're trying to pick a system that balances both efficiency and power, look for units with SEER 16+ and solid EER ratings (around 12 or higher).

Here's the Bonus: Federal Tax Credits for HVAC Efficiency

Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), homeowners can qualify for federal tax credits when they install high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment — including central air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces.

Here’s what to know:

  • ✅ Up to $2,000 back for qualifying air-source heat pumps.

  • ✅ Up to $600 back for qualifying central air conditioners or furnaces.

  • ✅ The unit must meet specific SEER2/EER2 efficiency standards (slightly updated versions of SEER/EER).

  • ✅ Installations must be in primary residences (not rentals), and the home must be in the U.S.

Always check with a tax professional or visit energystar.gov for up-to-date eligibility info before filing. And be sure to keep all receipts and documentation from your HVAC installation.

DIY Tip: Is Your System Eligible?

If you’re not sure whether your existing or planned system qualifies:

  • Look for the ENERGY STAR® label.

  • Ask your installer for the system’s SEER2 and EER2 ratings.

  • Keep all paperwork — you’ll need it for tax season.

When to Bring in a Pro

Choosing the right system involves more than just ratings — you’ll want to match it to your home’s size, insulation, ductwork, and lifestyle. If you’re unsure where to start, a trusted local HVAC company like McCorry Comfort can walk you through the options, help you choose qualifying equipment, and make sure everything is installed to code.

Final Thoughts

Philly summers aren’t getting any cooler, and running an old, inefficient AC is like throwing money out the window. By understanding SEER and EER, you can choose a system that’s not only more comfortable but also more affordable in the long run. And thanks to new federal tax credits, you might be able to get rewarded for going energy-efficient.

So if you’ve been on the fence about upgrading, this summer might be the perfect time to make the switch — and save big while doing it.