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 cooling output (in BTU) to energy input (in watt-hours) over a typical cooling season.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER equation:

Where:

• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units (cooling output)
• \( Wh \) — Watt-hours (energy input)

Explanation: Higher SEER ratings indicate more efficient cooling systems that provide more cooling output per unit of energy consumed.

3. Importance of SEER Calculation

Details: SEER rating is crucial for evaluating energy efficiency of cooling systems, estimating operating costs, and making informed purchasing decisions for HVAC equipment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total BTU cooling output and the corresponding watt-hour energy consumption. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: Modern air conditioners typically have SEER ratings between 13-21. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency.

Q2: How does SEER differ from EER?
A: SEER is a seasonal efficiency rating that accounts for varying temperatures, while EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at a specific temperature (usually 95°F).

Q3: Are there minimum SEER requirements?
A: Yes, in many regions there are government-mandated minimum SEER requirements for new HVAC systems, typically ranging from 13-15 SEER depending on the region.

Q4: How much can I save with a higher SEER unit?
A: Each point increase in SEER rating can typically save 5-7% on cooling costs, though actual savings depend on climate, usage patterns, and electricity rates.

Q5: Does SEER affect heating efficiency?
A: SEER specifically measures cooling efficiency. For heat pumps, heating efficiency is measured by HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor).