Electricity costs have climbed significantly in recent years. In 2006, the average U.S. residential rate was 10.40¢ per kWh. By 2025, Southern California residents are paying around 32¢ per kWh that’s more than three times higher.

With rates continuing to rise, how can you stay cool without watching your utility bill spike? One of the smartest solutions is upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system with a better SEER rating.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures how efficiently your air conditioner or heat pump uses electricity to cool your home. The higher the SEER, the less energy it takes and the more money you save. But what exactly is SEER, and why does it matter for your bottom line?