Home
Back
SEER Formula:
| From: | To: |
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of HVAC cooling efficiency that represents the total cooling output in BTUs divided by the total energy consumption in watt-hours over an entire cooling season.
The calculator uses the SEER formula:
Where:
Explanation: SEER measures how efficiently an air conditioning system operates over an entire cooling season, taking into account varying temperatures and operating conditions.
Details: Higher SEER ratings indicate more energy-efficient systems, which can significantly reduce electricity costs and environmental impact. Modern HVAC systems typically range from SEER 13 to SEER 25+.
Tips: Enter the total cooling output in BTU and total energy consumption in watt-hours. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: SEER ratings of 14-16 are considered good, 17-21 are excellent, and 22+ are premium efficiency. The minimum SEER rating varies by region and is regulated by energy efficiency standards.
Q2: How does SEER differ from EER?
A: SEER measures seasonal efficiency under varying conditions, while EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency at a specific temperature (95°F). SEER is generally higher than EER for the same unit.
Q3: Can SEER be too high?
A: While higher SEER means better efficiency, the cost savings must be weighed against the higher initial investment. The optimal SEER depends on climate, usage patterns, and local electricity costs.
Q4: How is SEER testing conducted?
A: SEER is calculated through laboratory tests that simulate a typical cooling season with various outdoor temperatures and humidity levels, following standardized testing protocols.
Q5: Does SEER affect heating efficiency?
A: No, SEER specifically measures cooling efficiency. Heating efficiency is measured by HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for heat pumps and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for furnaces.