SEER Ratings, Warranties & More Explained
📸 What Is the Photo Quote Tool—and Why It's a Game Changer
In the past, comparing HVAC systems required multiple in-home sales visits, hours of research, and conflicting advice from contractors. Today, thanks to tools like The Furnace Outlet’s Quote by Photo Tool, you can receive a personalized HVAC quote—complete with multiple system options—just by sending a few photos.
But here's the real value: this tool isn’t just about pricing. It’s about helping homeowners like Tony compare HVAC systems across a variety of factors that actually matter—like energy efficiency, warranty coverage, and equipment quality.
This guide will show you how to evaluate your quote and make a truly informed decision.
📊 SEER2 Ratings Made Simple: Why Efficiency Matters
What Is SEER2?
SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, version 2—the updated rating standard implemented in 2023. It tells you how much cooling output a system provides per unit of electricity used, factoring in real-world static pressure for more accurate testing.
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A higher SEER2 = more efficient = lower utility bills
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13.4 SEER2 is the new minimum in northern states (as of 2023)
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High-efficiency systems may reach 17–20+ SEER2
How the Tool Helps
Your quote will often include a Good, Better, Best comparison:
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Good: Baseline unit meeting minimum standards (e.g., 14.3 SEER2)
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Better: Moderate cost, improved efficiency (e.g., 15.2–16 SEER2)
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Best: High-end inverter or variable-speed models (e.g., 18–20 SEER2)
Tools to Explore Further:
🛡 Warranties: Reading the Fine Print Like a Pro
Warranties matter more than most people realize. They’re the difference between free compressor replacement and a $1,200 surprise expense 5 years down the road.
Key Warranty Features to Compare:
| Feature | Entry-Level Unit | Premium Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Parts Warranty | 5–10 years | 10–12 years |
| Compressor | 5 years | Limited Lifetime |
| Labor Coverage | Not Included | Add-on or negotiated |
| Transferability | Sometimes | Often Yes |
Pro Tips:
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Register your equipment within 60 days for full coverage
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Keep proof of professional installation if required by the brand
Resources:
💲 Price vs. Value: Why Mid-Tier Often Wins
Most quotes will show three system tiers. The temptation is to jump to the cheapest, but mid-range options often deliver:
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Better efficiency (lower long-term costs)
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Stronger warranty terms
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Quieter operation and better comfort features
Let’s break it down with Tony’s real-world example:
| System Option | SEER2 | Price | Est. Annual Cooling Cost | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goodman 14.3 | 14.3 | $3,300 | $720 | 5 years |
| Amana 15.2 | 15.2 | $3,800 | $645 | 10 years |
| Daikin Fit 18 | 18.0 | $5,300 | $510 | 12 years |
After comparing, Tony chose the Amana mid-tier model and saved:
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$75/year on energy over the base unit
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Got 5 more years of coverage
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Spent $500 more upfront but saved $750 in just 10 years
🔍 Feature Comparison Beyond SEER2
Here’s what you can and should evaluate from your quote:
✅ Variable vs. Single Stage Compressors
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Single-stage: Less expensive, always runs at 100% power
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Two-stage: Runs at 60% most of the time = more comfort and savings
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Variable-speed: Quietest, most efficient, best humidity control
✅ Smart Thermostat Compatibility
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Most modern systems support Wi-Fi thermostats (Nest, Ecobee)
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Some premium units include proprietary controls (Amana, Daikin)
✅ Noise Ratings (dB)
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56–60 dB = typical
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Below 55 dB = ultra-quiet (good for bedrooms or patio-adjacent installs)
🏠 Will It Fit? System Compatibility by Layout
The quote tool accounts for:
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Your duct layout
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Home size and insulation
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Indoor install location (basement, attic, closet)
Each option will list:
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Air handler dimensions
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Clearance requirements
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Connection type: upflow/downflow/horizontal
If you're unsure, ask for a line-by-line compatibility breakdown.
🧑🔧 Installer Flexibility & Equipment-Only Purchasing
Unlike traditional dealer quotes, the Photo Quote tool lets you:
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Buy just the equipment
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Use your own installer (or DIY if qualified)
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Compare labor-only quotes locally
Why it matters: You stay in control of the final cost and contractor.
You can also ask your installer:
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“Which of these three systems would you prefer to install and why?”
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“Will you help register the warranty post-install?”
📈 Comparing Energy Savings & ROI
Use these tools to crunch the numbers:
Even a single SEER2 point can result in $50–$100/year in energy savings depending on your climate.
💬 FAQs from Homeowners Like Tony
Q: Can I mix and match components from the quote?
A: Yes. For example, you may like the compressor from Option A but want the air handler from Option B. Just ask for a hybrid quote.
Q: What if I want a heat pump instead of AC?
A: Many quotes include heat pump-compatible options or can be adjusted upon request.
Q: Can I add air purification or zoning to the quoted systems?
A: Absolutely. Ask which systems are compatible with add-ons like media filters, UV lights, or zoning dampers.
✅ Final Thoughts: Why the Quote by Photo Tool Is a Comparison Engine
You’re not just getting a quote—you’re getting a head-to-head product comparison:
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SEER2 Efficiency
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Brand Quality
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Warranty Coverage
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Installation Fit
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Add-on Compatibility
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Price Transparency
And best of all? It’s done without the pressure of a sales visit.
In the next topic we will know more about: How the 'Quote by Photo' Process Works: Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
