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Between the months of July and August, summer temperatures in Southern Ontario often rise above above 20°C and frequently above 30°C, making a working, and energy-efficient air conditioning system in your home all the more valuable to your long-term comfort and energy savings.

But choosing the right air conditioner involves more than picking out a brand and setup, it really comes down to finding the right seasonal energy efficiency ration (SEER) rating for your home. And the ideal SEER rating for your property depends on the square footage of your home, cooling needs, and local climate conditions.

In this guide, homeowners will learn:

• How SEER measures cooling efficiency and what it means for your home.

• Why Southern Ontario's hot, humid summers make certain SEER ratings more practical.

• Recommended ratings for different properties, like condos, townhomes, and single-family homes.

• How a higher SEER rating will impact energy costs and savings.

• Other key installation factors. 

Choosing the right seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating for your Ontario home directly impacts energy efficiency levels, comfort, humidity control, and cooling costs. A seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating measures how efficiently an air conditioner converts electricity into its cooling output during the summer months. According to Natural Resources Canada, the higher the SEER rating, the more efficiently the unit operates.

Ontario summers can be scorchers with heat waves and high humidity levels, so your cooling system needs to not only cool down the interior of your property, but also remove moisture. Under the 2009 Green Energy Act, all air conditioners and heat pumps sold and installed in homes must meet minimum efficiency standards:

• Air conditioners: Both ductless mini-split and standard central air conditioner must have a SEER rating of at least 13.

• Heat pump: Both ductless and central heat pump must have a minimum SEER rating of 14.

For most homes across the Greater Toronto Area, an air conditioning system with a SEER rating between 16 and 18 provides the best of both worlds when it comes to upfront costs and long-term energy savings. A mid-to-high efficiency cooling system with these ratings can help reduce seasonal energy consumption, while improving humidity control. However, if you're in your forever home, or plan on remaining in the same location for more than 10 years, having an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 18 or higher, often leads to substantial savings long-term.

Ultimately, however, the best SEER for your home will depend on its size, how much time you spend at home during the summer, your budget, and ideal cooling load. Having a professional technician conduct a load calculation (Manual J) will give you the best results when selecting the best appliance for your home. 

Seasonal energy efficiency ratios measure how efficient air conditioners or heat pumps cool homes throughout the summer (cooling season). In other words, SEER compares a unit's total cooling output (British Thermal Units) to total energy consumption (watt-hours) during the summer. A higher SEER rating means that the HVAC system uses less energy to maintain indoor temperatures.

That said, while a SEER Rating is helpful when comparing air conditioner models, an HVAC system's real-world performance depends on several factors:

• Insulation quality and home size: Poor insulation quality throughout a property and homes with larger square footage will increase system operating time and reduce efficiency levels.

• Ductwork and airflow: Leaky, incorrectly sized ducts will force an air conditioner to work harder, again, lowering an air conditioner's efficiency levels.

• Thermostat savings: Incorrect thermostat settings can lead to increased system cycling and longer run times.

• Climate: Seasonal temperatures affect how long an AC unit needs to run during the summer.

• Maintenance: Poorly maintained air conditioners will reduce system performance levels, regardless of SEER ratings.

In reality, a higher SEER rating won't guarantee lower energy costs. 

Southern Ontario's hot climate during the summer months directly affects recommended SEER ratings for homes across the GTA. Not only will air conditioners in these homes have longer run times that cooler regions, they'll also need to control high humidity levels, both of which, puts more strain on the system as a whole. 

Because of this, homes in the region often benefit from installing an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating, because these units operate more efficiently over longer periods of time, which will reduce energy consumption levels, without compromising comfort or potential energy savings. In contrast, homes located in Northern Ontario often have shorter cooling seasons, which is where an air conditioner with moderate efficiency ratings do the trick. 

The type of home you reside in will partly determine the type of SEER rating will benefit your family and comfort levels:

Small Homes and Condos

Those living in smaller homes, townhomes, and condos, often have a lower overall cooling load requirement, as there is less space than needs to be conditioned and maintained, leading to shorter cooling output and cycles. For these properties, SEER ratings between 15 and 16 generally offer balanced cooling efficiency and costs without the need to over-spend on expensive, premium equipment.

Mid-Size Detached Homes

A mid-size detached home in Ontario can range between 1,500 and 2,000 square feet. These properties often benefit from air conditioners with SEER ratings between 16 and 18. This range helps maintain moderate energy usage while maintaining comfort levels throughout the summer months. Mid-range efficiency air conditioners are often equipped with variable speed compressors, which help regulate cooling output for better humidity control, making them ideal for humid climates.

Large Homes and High Cooling Demand Homes

Larger homes with square footages above 2,000, especially those with open floor plans and multiple levels, often benefit from a higher SEER rating between 17 and 20+. Because larger spaces require longer runtimes to cool and have greater humidity control demands, premium air conditioning systems with multi-stage or variable speed compressors are worth the investment. And with with smart thermostats, homeowners can manage their indoor temperature levels more precisely while remaining energy efficient. 

Understanding seer ratings and how they differ can help you choose the right balance between upfront costs and long-term energy savings:

13 to 14 SEER Rating

A SEER rating between 13 and 14 is a standard energy efficiency ratio that meets minimum standards in Ontario. These air conditioning systems are often more affordable upfront, but because they operate less efficiently during the summertime, they use more energy than higher rated systems, which, in turn, will result in less savings over time.

15 to 16 SEER Rating (Mid-Efficiency)

Energy-efficient air conditioners with SEER ratings between 15 and 16 are considered mid-efficiency appliances, and are often some of the more common units found across Ontario homes. They offer notable energy savings while balancing upfront costs. For the majority of homeowners, this energy efficiency ranges offers the best return on investment over time.

17 to 18 SEER (High-Efficiency)

High-efficiency air conditioners with SEER ratings between 17 and 18 generate greater cost savings. These units often include advanced features like variable speed compressors and enhanced humidity control, which can be particularly beneficial during those hot, humid summer mothers in southern Ontario.

19 to 21+ SEER (Premium Efficiency)

Premium air conditioning systems with SEER ratings exceeding 19 will deliver the highest seasonal efficiency levels compared to any other unit on the market. They often integrate smart controls and other zoning capabilities. While they operate quietly and deliver the most precise temperature control/comfort levels, they do come with a higher upfront cost and may not offer a notable return on investment in the first five to 10 years of usage. 

Your air conditioner's efficiency rating will directly impact your ability to save money on your monthly utility costs:

Energy Consumption and Hydro Bills

SEER directly impacts how much electricity an air conditioning system uses throughout an entire cooling season. By investing in a new AC unit with higher SEER ratings, you can reduce your overall energy consumption and overall environmental impact. That means noticeably savings on your summer electrical costs, without having to compromise your indoor comfort levels.

Long-Term Savings vs. Upfront Costs

While higher SEER rated air conditioners will cost more initially, they can deliver significant lifetime savings due to their reduced energy usage levels. For many homeowners, the difference in expenses between a lower SEER unit between 13 and 14, and a higher SEER unit between 16 and 18 can be recovered over time (typically between 7 and 12 years), depending on how often the cooling system operates, thermostat settings, and home efficiency levels. In other words, the more a homeowner uses their air conditioner, the faster it will pay itself off through energy savings. 

SEER ratings are closely connected to the type of cooling system you choose for your home. Understanding seer ratings and how they apply to different systems can help you make a more informed decisions based on your space and comfort needs.

Central Air Conditioners

ENERGY STAR-certified central air conditioners are some of the most common cooling systems across Ontario homes that are equipped with existing ductwork. These systems range anywhere from SEER 13 to 20+. Because central air conditioners rely on ductwork and airflow, even a high-efficiency model can underperform if your home's ductwork is poorly designed or leaky, which is why its essential to have well-sealed ductwork upon installing a new central unit in your home.

Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps

Ductless mini-split air conditioners and heat pumps have SEER ratings that range between 14 and 20+. Because they don't require ductwork, these units can be installed into the rooms of your choice, allowing for zoned cooling. Heat pumps, on the other hand, offer heating and cooling for year-round comfort control. 

While SEER ratings are important, there are other critical factors homeowners need to keep in mind, if they want to achieve optimal performance levels from their air conditioners:

• Proper sizing: An oversized or undersized air conditioner will experience higher costs over time, reduce indoor comfort levels, and wear out quicker than a properly sized unit.

• Installation quality: Poor installation jobs performed by uncertified individuals can cause damage to your appliance and prevent your system from operating efficiently.

• Ductwork: Leaky ducts and poor installation will make it harder for you to maintain a consistent temperature in your home.

• Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance is essential to keeping your air conditioner operating as efficiently as possible during each cooling system. Without annual maintenance, your unit will experience poor efficiency levels, ongoing breakdowns, and wear out faster, leading to premature replacements. 

A higher SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency, but opting for the highest SEER on the market doesn't make sense for all Ontario homeowners. The right air conditioner depends on your cooling output needs, budget, local climate conditions, and how long you plan on staying in your home.

Here are some factors you need to think about:

• Higher SEER Rating = lower energy consumption: More efficient units will use less energy over the cooling system, which can reduce monthly utility bills.

• Higher upfront expenses: Premium, modern air conditioners with the highest SEER ratings available will cost more upfront and savings over time will take longer to recover.

• Local climate conditions: Southern Ontario from the GTA to Ottawa, experience longer, more humid summers than northern parts of the province. A higher SEER rating will be more beneficial to those in more southern regions of Ontario, while those in Northern parts of Ontario, may not need to rely on as energy-efficient of an air conditioner during a typical cooling season.

• Repair and replacement part costs: High SEER rated air conditioners with advanced features like variable speed compressors, are often more expensive to repair and maintain, which may not be feasible for all homeowners.

• Home layout: The insulation and ductwork quality in your home can impact your ability to maintain precise temperature control in your space, leading to increased cooling costs, despite installing a new air conditioner. 

Here's a quick comparison table Ontario homeowners can use to compare SEER ratings of different air conditioning systems:

SEER rating	Efficiency level	Upfront costs	Energy savings	Best for
13 to 14	Meets minimum efficiency standard for Ontario.	Lowest	Basic energy savings on utility bills compared to older systems that are nearing the end of their lifespan.	Budget replacements or homes that don't rely on their air conditioning system during the entire cooling season.
15 to 16	Mid-efficiency rating.	Moderate	Noticeably lower energy consumption for moderate savings on monthly utility bills.	Most Southern Ontario homes looking to balancing initial costs and ongoing efficiency levels for lower utility bills.
17 to 18	High-efficiency rating.	Higher	Optimal performance levels for lower energy bills and humidity control.	Homes with consistent cooling needs in higher humidity climates than need stable cooling output throughout a typical cooling season.
19 to 21+	Premium efficiency rating.	Highest	The most premium modern air conditioners on the market for optimal energy savings over time.	Long-term homeowners with higher upfront budgets focused on energy efficiency, their environmental impact and comfort levels.

So, when should homeowners in Ontario consider upgrading to a higher SEER rated air conditioner? Investing in an efficient unit makes sense when:

• Your current air conditioning system is reaching the end of its lifespan

• No matter how well you maintain your current air conditioning system, your appliance's energy efficiency ratings are still low.

• Your monthly energy costs continue to rise despite not using your air conditioning system any more frequently.

• You're experiencing more frequent, costly repairs during the summer months.

• You want more precise temperature control, humidity control, and comfort.

• You plan on staying in your home long-term.

Government rebates can make upgrading to a higher energy-efficient air conditioner more affordable. In Ontario, programs like the Home Renovation Savings Program can help homeowners reduce upfront costs on energy-efficient upgrades like heat pumps, insulation, and smart thermostats.

Depending on the upgrade and individual eligibility, homeowners may qualify for:

• Up to $12,000 for heat pumps.

• Up to $1,250 for insulation.

• $100 for smart thermostats.

• Additional rebates for air sealing, and home energy assessments are also available.

And if you choose to install a new appliance with a greater energy efficiency ratio in your home through Enbridge Sustain's lease-to-own program, you can get a new unit installed in your home for $0 down and no payments for the first 12 months of your lease. After the first year, you make affordable monthly payments toward your lease, and at the end, you'll own your HVAC system outright.

Get a free quote for an energy-efficient air conditioner or heat pump in Ontario with Enbridge Sustain and our local partners today!