SEER2 & HSPF2
SEER2 and HSPF2 are the current lab-tested efficiency ratings for central air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless systems — SEER2 measures cooling efficiency over a season, HSPF2 measures heating efficiency for heat pumps. Higher numbers mean more cooling or heating output per unit of electricity used.
Why this matters to you
A higher SEER2 or HSPF2 rating generally means lower cooling and heating costs over a full Ontario year — how much lower depends on your home's size, insulation, and current system, so treat the rating as one input for comparing quotes, not a guaranteed dollar figure.
SEER2 cooling-efficiency tiers
| Tier | SEER2 range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | 13–14 | Meets baseline efficiency requirements; lowest equipment cost |
| Mid-efficiency | 15–17 | Noticeable efficiency step up; common sweet spot for replacements |
| High-efficiency | 18+ | Often paired with variable-speed compressors; highest equipment cost, lowest operating cost |
Frequently asked questions
Why did SEER2 replace SEER on equipment labels?
SEER2 uses an updated lab testing procedure that better reflects real-world ductwork resistance than the older SEER test, so SEER2 numbers on newer equipment aren't directly comparable to SEER numbers on older equipment even when the hardware performs similarly.
Does a higher SEER2 rating guarantee a lower hydro bill?
No — ductwork condition, insulation, thermostat habits, and correct sizing all affect real-world energy use as much as the rating on the nameplate. A high-SEER2 system installed with leaky ducts can underperform a lower-rated system installed correctly.
Is HSPF2 relevant if I'm only buying an air conditioner?
No — HSPF2 only applies to heat pumps, since it measures heating-mode efficiency. A straight air conditioner is rated on SEER2 alone; you'll only see an HSPF2 number on equipment that can also heat.
Halton Hills note
Halton Hills summers bring stretches of humid, hot weather, and Ontario's time-of-use hydro pricing makes afternoon peak-rate cooling the most expensive electricity of the day — so SEER2 differences show up most during exactly the hours you're running the AC hardest.
Have questions about efficiency ratings for your home?