Understanding SEER Ratings: Selecting an AC Unit Suitable for Calgary’s Climate

Have you ever stood in your living room on a sweltering Calgary afternoon, wondering why your air conditioner seems to be running forever without making much difference? Or maybe you’ve winced at your summer energy bill, shocked at the cost of staying comfortable during our brief but sometimes intense warm season. If so, you’re not alone—and SEER ratings might be the concept you’ve been missing.

What’s This SEER Business All About?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is basically your AC unit’s report card. It tells you how efficiently your air conditioner converts electricity into cooling power over an entire season. The higher the number, the less money you’re tossing out the window when you turn on your cooling system.

Think of it like your car’s fuel efficiency. Just as you’d prefer a vehicle that gives you more kilometers per liter, you want an AC unit that gives you more cooling per dollar spent. Simple, right?

Calgary’s Climate: A Special Consideration

Here’s where things get interesting. Calgary isn’t Phoenix or Miami. Our cooling season is shorter but it can still pack a punch when needed. We experience:

• A relatively short summer season (typically June through August)
• Dramatic temperature fluctuations (hello, Chinooks!)
• Lower humidity levels than many other Canadian cities
• Cool evenings even during summer months

This unique climate pattern means your AC works differently here than it would in Toronto or Vancouver. In Calgary, your system might run intensely for shorter periods rather than maintaining a constant low output.

Finding Your SEER Sweet Spot

So what’s the right SEER rating for a Calgary home? The current minimum standard for new units in Canada is 13 SEER, as established by Natural Resources Canada’s EnerGuide standards, but is that enough? Let’s break it down:

SEER Rating	Best For	Cost Considerations
13-15 SEER	Budget-conscious homeowners with minimal cooling needs	Lower upfront cost, moderate efficiency
16-18 SEER	Most Calgary homes seeking balance	Medium upfront cost, good efficiency for our climate
19+ SEER	Larger homes or those with significant cooling needs	Higher upfront cost, maximum efficiency

We typically recommend 16-18 SEER units for most Calgary homeowners. Why? Because they offer the best balance between upfront costs and energy savings given our specific climate conditions.

SEER vs. SEER2: What’s Changing?

You might have heard about SEER2, the new kid on the efficiency block. SEER2 comes from updated testing procedures that better reflect real-world conditions. The numbers are typically about 4.5% lower than traditional SEER ratings for the same unit.

Are SEER2 units mandatory in Canada? Not yet—Canadian regulations still reference the original SEER standards, according to the Heating, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI). However, as the industry transitions, you’ll likely see more SEER2 ratings in the market. Don’t panic if a unit’s SEER2 rating seems lower than what you expected; it’s measured differently but might be the same efficient unit.

 

The Money Question: Does Higher SEER Actually Save Cash?

Here is a question we get all the time. Does investing in a higher SEER rating actually put money back in my pocket?

The short answer is yes—but with an important caveat. The return on investment depends on how well your AC unit was installed, your usage patterns, how air-tight your house is, and how long you plan to stay in your home.

In Calgary’s relatively short cooling season, the sweet spot typically falls between 16-18 SEER. 

Making the Right Choice for Your Calgary Home

Choosing an AC unit isn’t just about picking the highest number on the efficiency scale. It’s about finding the right balance for your specific home, budget, and comfort needs in our unique climate.

Before making your decision:

• Consider your typical summer cooling needs
• Factor in the size and insulation quality of your home
• Think about how long you plan to live in your current residence
• Calculate potential energy savings against the higher upfront cost

Whether you’re installing your first AC unit or upgrading an aging system, getting professional guidance can ensure you make the most informed choice.

Ready to Keep Your Cool?

At JPS Furnace & Air Conditioning, our Home Comfort Experts can help you navigate SEER ratings, system sizing, and installation options tailored to your home comfort and the unique climate

Contact us today to start the conversation about keeping your home comfortable year-round.