The debate over moving up to a proposed 12 SEER efficiency standard for central air conditioners and heat pumps, or making it 13 SEER, shows cost figures that diverge significantly from Department of Energy (DOE) estimates. The Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) says 13 SEER will be more costly than estimated. Goodman Manufac-turing points to a report that says it will be less costly.
ARI supports the 12 SEER proposal (a 20% increase) that it says would be more affordable to consumers. Goodman supports 13 SEER (a 30% increase), saying that it would maximize energy savings to make up for the added cost.