1. What Is SEER?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. It represents the ratio of total seasonal cooling output in British Thermal Units (BTU) to total seasonal energy consumption in watt-hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Total Seasonal Cooling} \) — Total cooling output over a season (BTU)
• \( \text{Total Seasonal kWh} \) — Total energy consumption over a season (kilowatt-hours)

Explanation: SEER measures how efficiently an air conditioning system operates over an entire cooling season, accounting for varying temperatures and operating conditions.

3. Importance of SEER Calculation

Details: Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency, which translates to lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact. SEER is crucial for comparing different HVAC systems and making informed purchasing decisions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total seasonal cooling in BTU and total seasonal energy consumption in kWh. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: SEER ratings typically range from 13 to 25+. A rating of 14-16 is standard efficiency, 17-21 is high efficiency, and 22+ is ultra-high efficiency.

Q2: How is SEER different from EER?
A: SEER measures seasonal efficiency under varying conditions, while EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at a specific temperature (usually 95°F).

Q3: Why is SEER important for HVAC systems?
A: SEER helps consumers compare energy efficiency between different models, estimate operating costs, and understand environmental impact.

Q4: What factors affect SEER rating?
A: Compressor efficiency, coil design, fan motors, refrigerant type, and system sizing all influence SEER ratings.

Q5: Are there minimum SEER requirements?
A: Yes, minimum SEER requirements vary by region and are set by government regulations to promote energy efficiency.