1. What is SEER?

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. It represents the total cooling output in BTUs divided by the total energy input in watt-hours during a typical cooling season.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Cooling Output} \) — Total cooling capacity in British Thermal Units (BTU)
• \( \text{Energy Input} \) — Total energy consumption in watt-hours (Wh)

Explanation: SEER measures how efficiently an air conditioning system operates over an entire cooling season, taking into account 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. Modern standards require minimum SEER ratings for new AC units.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total cooling output in BTU and total energy input in Wh. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

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 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).

Q3: Why is SEER important for consumers?
A: Higher SEER units cost more upfront but save money on energy bills over time. The payback period depends on local climate and electricity rates.

Q4: What factors affect SEER rating?
A: Compressor technology, coil design, fan motors, refrigerant type, and overall system design all contribute to the SEER rating.

Q5: Are there minimum SEER requirements?
A: Yes, in the United States, the minimum SEER requirement varies by region, typically ranging from 13 to 15 SEER depending on the climate zone.