Cps

It is quite possible to reach 14 SEER from a 13 SEER HP condenser. Depends on the air handler selection..

However, these are the minimum specs you should be looking for.

both outside and inside units should be replaced to have a properly matched system.

15 SEER, 12.5+ EER, 9 HSPF
best matching VS air handler
full BTUs in both cooling and heating for your rated size
R-410a refrigerant(same as Puron)
scroll compressor preferred
electronic demand defrost preferred
thermostat with "dehumidify on demand" feature
staged backup heat strips
new and correctly sized refrigerant lineset
10 yr warranty on parts and compressor

you want a thorough inspection of your ductwork system. size, overall condition, supply and return lines, insulation qualities, leak test, etc.

any hot/cold spot issues in your home should be addressed.

My personal recommendation is Trane/AmStd, Rudd/Rheem, and Carrier/Bryant.

Depending on your location, I would not purchase a new system that did not have electronic demand defrost.

IMO

The SEER rating is determined by matching the air handler and the heat pump. A SEER rating of a stand alone air handler or a heat pump doesn't indicate how efficiently it will perform. Usually manufacturers will state a range of potential SEER values for a piece of equipment.

I am curious as to how much was the 13 to 14 SEER upgrade.

Cpstechguy

I would ask for the ARI match up. Your contractor can provide that. There are many combinations that have many different SEERS, you need to have a matched system. I would be more worried about the quality of the equipment.

SEER 14 is nothing to brag about. I believe that SEER 13 is the lowest efficiency that can be bought today.