Quote:
Originally Posted by EdFNJ
While a high SEER unit will definitely save electric billl somewhat I wonder how many years it will take to recoup the price difference? Don't forget, people around here aren't likely to be around for "the life of the (new) unit". 
Of course it depends on how much electric you use but my computed SECO AVERAGE bill for 2021 was $1651/12=137.58 (2/2 1200 sq ft) with 2 highest months around $280. We keep temp at 78 all day and 71 between midnight and 7:30am. We still have the original 14 SEER circa 2009 Carrier unit that was here when we moved in in 2017. I have changed the compressor capacitor 3 times in close to 6 years and the AH capacitor 1 time at about $10 or less each and it's still going strong (KNOCK WOOD, PLASTIC METAL and anything else around). How much could I REALLY save with a super high efficiency model (other than what the salesmen tell you). I'm 75. I believe I'll be pushing up daisies before the savings is covered. No, I don't care about the next owners whoever they are. Sometimes I think the SEER rating is just a bit overplayed simply to sell a more expensive system. Kind of like the EPA mileage ratings of a vehicle. Even if I saved 20% ($330) over a year I can't see the reason to invest a couple of thousand more up front. |
I agree. Note that the Federal requirement for heat pumps in Florida will increase the minimum SEER rating from 14 to 15 on January 1, 2023. So, if you want to save money, you may still be able to buy an SEER 14 unit in 2022. It may save you about $1,000 or so in initial cost. Personally, I would go with the SEER 15 unit since they are changing the standard. But, I wouldn't buy a more efficient unit than that, and I wouldn't buy a multi-stage compressor that some people are talked into buying. Hopefully, there won't be a supply shortage for the SEER 15 units when the new standard goes into effect.