1. What is SEER?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the SEER formula:

Where:

• Total Cooling — Total cooling output in British Thermal Units (BTU) over a season
• Total Energy — Total electrical energy consumed in watt-hours (Wh) over the same period

Explanation: Higher SEER ratings indicate more efficient air conditioners that deliver more cooling per unit of energy consumed.

3. Importance of SEER Calculation

Details: SEER is crucial for comparing energy efficiency of different air conditioning systems and estimating potential energy savings. In many countries, minimum SEER ratings are mandated by law.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cooling in BTU and total energy consumption in Wh. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the SEER ratio.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good SEER rating?
A: As of 2023, the U.S. minimum is 14 SEER (15 in northern states). High-efficiency units can reach 20-26 SEER.

Q2: How does SEER differ from EER?
A: EER measures efficiency at one operating condition, while SEER represents seasonal average efficiency under varying conditions.

Q3: Can I use this for heat pumps?
A: Yes, heat pumps in cooling mode use the same SEER calculation.

Q4: Does higher SEER always mean better?
A: Higher SEER means better efficiency, but the cost premium may not justify the energy savings in all climates or usage patterns.

Q5: How is SEER measured in real systems?
A: Manufacturers test under controlled laboratory conditions following standardized test procedures.