Galaxy Services – Your Trusted HVAC Installer in Pleasant Hill and Beyond
If you’re shopping for a new HVAC system in 2025, you’ve probably noticed two phrases everywhere: SEER2 rating and variable-speed system. But how do these actually affect your comfort and your wallet?
And more importantly, do you really need the highest SEER2 system with all the bells and whistles?
At Galaxy Services, we help Bay Area homeowners choose smart, efficient HVAC systems tailored to their homes, not just the most expensive option. Let’s break down when it makes sense to invest in high-SEER2, variable-speed HVAC systems, and when a mid-tier system may be just right.
🔍 First, What Is SEER2 and Why Does It Matter?
SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, the updated federal metric for air conditioning and heat pump efficiency. The higher the SEER2 number, the more energy-efficient the system is over a cooling season.
In 2025, most HVAC rebates in California require systems to meet a minimum of 16 SEER2. This includes rebates from:
- BayREN
- TECH Clean California
- Peninsula Clean Energy
- Federal tax credits (Inflation Reduction Act)
✅ At Galaxy Services, we do not recommend low-SEER or single-stage systems, even if they’re cheaper. They’re less efficient, often noisier, and don’t qualify for most rebates.
⚡ When a High SEER2 System Is Worth It
If you:
- Run your AC regularly during the summer
- Live in a multi-zone or large home
- Plan to stay in your home for the next 10+ years
- Want maximum comfort and quiet operation
- Are replacing a gas furnace + AC combo with a heat pump
Then a variable-speed system with a SEER2 rating of 18+ could be an excellent investment. These units:
- Use less electricity
- Maintain a steady indoor temperature
- Qualify for the largest rebate amounts
- Offer quiet, long-lasting performance
🧊 But What If You Don’t Use AC That Often?
For homes in coastal Bay Area cities like Daly City, Pacifica, or San Francisco, where AC use is minimal, going ultra-high SEER2 might not bring enough ROI to justify the cost.
In these cases, a mid-efficiency variable-speed system (16–17 SEER2) may be the smarter, more cost-effective option. You’ll still get:
- Better comfort than a basic system
- Long-term savings
- Rebate eligibility
Without overspending on efficiency you don’t need.
🏠 Ducted or Ductless: Which System Should You Choose?
Efficiency isn’t just about SEER2. The type of system you install matters too.
✅ Ducted Heat Pumps
Great for:
- Homes with existing ductwork
- Centralized comfort
- Clean aesthetic (no wall units)
- Whole-home upgrades and all-electric conversions
Galaxy Services installs top brands like American Standard, Mitsubishi, Carrier, Lennox, and Bosch ducted systems with 16+ SEER2 and variable-speed performance.
✅ Ductless Mini-Splits
Best for:
- Homes without ducts
- Room additions, ADUs, or garage conversions
- Zoned heating and cooling
- Maximum control over each room
We install premium Mitsubishi and Daikin mini-split systems that are whisper-quiet, ultra-efficient, and ideal for challenging layouts.
🎯 The Galaxy Services Approach
We don’t just sell HVAC equipment, we help you design the right solution for your home and lifestyle.
- Always rebate-eligible systems (16+ SEER2)
- Variable-speed or inverter systems preferred
- Energy savings + long-term performance = our standard
- No shortcuts. No cheap, outdated single-stage units
📞 Call Galaxy Services at (925) 578-3293
🔧 Free Estimates | Local Rebates | Heat Pump Experts
🌁 Serving Pleasant Hill, Oakland, San Mateo, San Francisco, and nearby cities
Request your free HVAC consultation and let us help you find the system that fits your home, your budget, and your comfort goals.